Funds promised for headspace expansion

THE Australian Labor Party has pledged to upgrade Bendigo’s headspace centre in Pall Mall if it’s re-elected to Federal Government on 3 May, with additional staff and capabilities to support young people with more acute mental health challenges.

The proposed overhaul is part of a more than $200 million commitment by the ALP to roll out 58 new or improved headspace services nationally.

headspace aims to offer a welcoming, youth-friendly space and highly trained staff who can provide help with mental health care, physical and sexual health care, alcohol and drug issues, and work and study.

The centres assist the growing number of young people aged 12 to 25 who experience or are at risk of mild to moderate mental ill-health.

“headspace Bendigo does such a fantastic job providing free mental health services for our local young people,” Federal Member for Bendigo Lisa Chesters said.

“The expansion to a headspace Plus will give them the resources to support young people with more complex mental health issues.

“Labor recognises the importance of free mental health services backed by Medicare and is committed to expanding these services here in Bendigo.”

The ALP has also pledged $225 million in funding for 31 new and upgraded Medicare Mental Health Centres, $500 million for 20 Youth Specialist Care Centres for young people with complex needs, and $90 million for more than 1,200 training places for mental health professionals and peer workers.

From 1 January 2026, a new national early intervention service will also launch, which anyone can access for free mental health support.