Wednesday, 14 August 2024

 Ingrid STITT (Western Metropolitan – Minister for Mental Health, Minister for Ageing, Minister for Multicultural Affairs) (12:34): I rise to update the house on my recent visit to sunny Mildura and the work we are doing to improve access to mental health and alcohol and other drug services in the area. It was a pleasure to meet the team at the mental health and wellbeing local, including peer wellbeing navigator Michelle, an absolute force of nature who has channelled her lived experience to support members of the community to access the mental health care that best suits their needs. The local is already having a really positive impact in the community thanks to the collaboration of everyone involved. I also spent some time at Mallee District Aboriginal Services with Tiffany to hear about the important work the social and emotional wellbeing team is delivering there. Alongside an impressive group of community members and some local government leaders, I announced that five more social inclusion action groups will be established, including one in Mildura. The groups will be made up of a diverse range of community members and local leaders working together to combat loneliness and isolation by boosting social inclusion and connection.

I also announced the address of the $36 million drug and alcohol rehabilitation and withdrawal facility. This facility, which will be in Merbein, will be a game changer. It will ensure that locals do not have to travel outside of their community. They can stay in their community and get the support that they have through family and their networks while they get treatment and care that they need.

It was really great to speak with Aunty Jenene Murray and Aunty Jemmes Handy about the project, and I would like to acknowledge the work and advocacy of the Mallee District Aboriginal Services and the broader First Nations community for this rehab facility, which will benefit the whole Mildura and broader Mallee community. Mildura is definitely a special place, and I was blown away by how everyone works together to drive the best outcomes for the whole community. The Allan Labor government is proud to continue to invest in this community.