Young people in the Bega Valley region will soon benefit from improved access to mental health support, with the Albanese Government providing $798,910 in funding to Bega headspace.

This funding is being provided under the headspace Demand Management and Enhancement Grant Opportunity and will go towards increasing staff and reducing wait times.

Member for Eden-Monaro Kristy McBain says this will go a long way towards supporting young people in the Bega Valley and surrounding area who need mental health support.

“Right now, demand for mental health support is at an all-time high,” Ms McBain said.

“Many young people in our community are experiencing psychological distress as they continue to recover from the 2019/20 bushfires while also dealing with the growing pressures of school, work, and the COVID-19 pandemic.

“This funding is welcome news for teenagers and young adults in the Bega Valley who deserve to have the care they need when they need it, close to home.”

This funding is part of a wider $44 million announcement for 57 headspace services across Australia. The funding will help improve demand management at headspace services, increase access and reduce wait times for young people in need of support, and enhance the quality of experience at headspace.

This round includes $27 million to reduce wait times at 31 headspace centres around the country, and another $17 million to improve buildings and equipment at 38 headspace centres.

Australia is currently experiencing a record surge in demand for mental health support, particularly among young Australians, and the Albanese Government is working to ensure they have the support they need.