Lyons wants Geelong to get its own mental health centre

FORMER Geelong mayor and now-independent candidate for the state seat of Geelong Darryn Lyons has urged Labor and the Liberals to commit to a purpose-built mental health facility in Geelong.

He said the existing Swanston Centre at University Hospital Geelong was past its use-by date and under “incredible pressure” to address the growing demand for mental health services in the region.

“As well as outdated facilities, staff have reported being scared, at risk and vulnerable. There have been numerous alerts for violent, aggressive and threatening behaviour.

“In addition, statistics show one in four young people between 15 and 24 will experience mental health problems and there are serious concerns that figure will increase.

“All this is compelling evidence of the need for a state-of-the-art facility that embodies the latest innovative thinking and delivers multifaceted programs that address an issue that touches virtually everyone in the community.”

He said the new facility should have at least twice (preferably three times) as many beds for inpatients and day patients as well as consulting rooms, and training facilities for medical professionals.

“The major parties have taken pork barrelling to a new level this election. In fact, they have been throwing everything and the kitchen sink at voters.

“That’s good news no matter which party wins government, but this proposal stands heads and shoulders above many of the pledges trotted out in recent weeks and one that deserves total bipartisan support.”

Mr Lyons said while Labor had promised $3 million toward remodelling the Swanston Centre, it fell short of what was needed.