Thursday, 5 March 2026

 Wendy LOVELL (Northern Victoria) (12:48): My question is for the Minister for Mental Health: will the minister commit to provide funding in the 2026–27 state budget for a youth mental health service in the Macedon electorate? There is a troubling increase in mental health issues for young people in Victoria, but Labor’s response is falling far short, especially in regional Victoria. There is a significant gap in youth mental health services in the Macedon electorate, with large distances between the towns and a patchy public transport service making it difficult for young people to access the services they need. Macedon Ranges council has a plan to address that gap, but they need support from the state government. Council has already identified a preferred location and will partner with Headspace to deliver an integrated youth mental health service. They require $2 million to fit out the facility and staff the service, and I urge the minister to provide the funding for this vital project in the state budget.