GED KEARNEY MP
MEMBER FOR COOPER
A Shorten Labor Government will create a new, full headspace centre in Cooper, previously named Batman, at the Federal election to deliver early intervention mental health services for young people aged 12 to 25 years.
This election is a choice between a Shorten Labor Government with a plan for the mental health services our community needs, or more cuts and chaos from the Liberals.
Labor knows that the level of mental ill health amongst young people across Cooper is of persistent and increasing concern.
Ged Kearney MP said early intervention services were desperately needed in the area.
“As a nurse, I understand that mental ill health affects every aspect of a person’s life. I’m so pleased to have secured a headspace centre for Cooper. It will help young people in our community have access to vital services and support,” said Ms Kearney.
“Many school principals have also raised with me the need for more youth mental health services. Today’s announcement will make a real difference to our community.”
By creating a dedicated headspace centre in Cooper, Labor will help to ensure that when young people put their hand up, say they are not well and they need help, services are available and accessible.
The headspace will also promote young peoples’ wellbeing across mental health, physical health, work and study support, and alcohol and other drug services.
Our announcement builds on Labor’s strong history of supporting and expanding headspace, including our recent announcements to open new centres across the country.
When Labor was in Government, we increased the number of headspace sites by investing almost $200 million to bring the total number of headspace centres to 90. Labor also expanded the Early Psychosis Prevention and Intervention Centre services that are delivered by headspace.
Labor continues to take action on youth mental health because it is the right thing to do – for our young people, their families and the broader community.
* For 24/7 crisis support and suicide prevention services call Lifeline on 13 11 14. Other services include Suicide Call Back Service: 1300 659 467, Beyondblue: 1300 22 4636, Kids Helpline: 1800 551 800, MensLine Australia: 1300 789 978 *
