Armstrong Creek locks in permanent headspace hub

(L-R) Site manager Pat Duncan, Corangamite federal member Libby Coker and Brix Property development manager Josh Freezer. Photo: SUPPLIED

THE Surf Coast Highway will soon be home to a permanent headspace centre, with work now underway to expand access to youth mental health care in Armstrong Creek.

The centre will provide a long-term base for headspace Armstrong Creek, expanding the service beyond its temporary premises in Central Boulevard, where it opened in December 2024.

Federal member for Corangamite, Libby Coker, said the permanent centre will ensure young people can access care locally rather than travelling into central Geelong.

“headspace Armstrong Creek provides vital services for young people in this rapidly growing area and the new permanent site will ensure this service endures,” she said.

“The interim site at the Community Hub has been such a success, but this new permanent site will provide better connectivity for young people travelling on public transport from Torquay or Grovedale.

“It’ll mean more opportunity for more young people to access these services.”

Commissioned by the Western Victoria Primary Health Network (WVPHN) and operated by mental health provider Stride, the service supports people aged 12 to 25 with mental health, physical and sexual health, alcohol and drug support, and work and study guidance.

WVPHN chief executive Craig Wilding said the permanent site would play an important role in reducing barriers to care.

“Breaking down barriers for young people accessing mental health support and helping foster better relationships with their natural support networks is key to the health and wellbeing of our youth,” he said.

“We are proud to be providing even greater access to appropriate care.”

Stride consulted with young people during planning for the new centre, which will continue to offer free or low-cost services.

GPs can refer young people to headspace directly, and young people and families can also contact the service to make an appointment themselves.

headspace Armstrong Creek is funded by the federal government and is one of 172 headspace services operating across the country.