Residents of Sydney’s west will soon benefit from expanded access to free, walk-in mental health care at the Canterbury Medicare Mental Health Centre, thanks to a $8.3 million investment from the Albanese Labor Government. The NSW Minns Labor Government is also contributing additional funding to ensure the centre’s services meet the growing demand from the community.
Since its opening in January 2023, the centre has been a crucial resource for mental health care, and the improvements planned for the coming year will enhance its ability to serve even more residents. The expansion includes the hiring of additional clinical staff to further strengthen the centre’s capacity.
The centre will continue to offer extended hours with no appointment or referral needed, providing immediate mental health support for those in distress, and ongoing care for individuals with more complex needs. The team at Canterbury includes social workers, nurses, and peer support workers who are equipped to assist people in crisis.
In addition to these improvements, the government is investing $29.9 million to expand access to psychologists and psychiatrists at all Medicare Mental Health Centres, improving specialist care across the network. These centres also offer support for carers and families, and can connect individuals to other essential services, such as housing, employment, and general health resources.
This investment is part of the Albanese Labor Government’s broader strategy to strengthen Medicare and build a national network of 61 Medicare Mental Health Centres, including 22 in New South Wales. Currently, there are 35 centres operating across the country, providing essential mental health services.
The Canterbury centre is commissioned by the Central and Eastern Sydney Primary Health Network and operated by One Door Mental Health. The planned upgrades to the centre are expected to be completed by mid-next year.
For those unable to access the centre directly, there is a free helpline at 1800 595 212, where trained professionals can provide advice, information, or referrals to the most appropriate local mental health service.
Key Quotes:
Minister Burke, Member for Watson:
“No one should ever be forced to delay their mental-health care because it’s too expensive. With this investment, people in the area will have better access to mental-health care when they need it most and they’ll only need their Medicare card, not their credit card.”
Assistant Minister McBride:
“The Albanese Labor Government is expanding and enhancing the Medicare Mental Health Centre network across the country. Medicare Mental Health Centres allow people to get vital mental health care, as well as other support, without an appointment.”
Minister Jackson, New South Wales Minister for Mental Health:
“Providing more accessible mental health care is a priority for the Minns Labor Government. That’s why we’re investing in the Canterbury Medicare Mental Health Centre, which will soon be open for longer to better meet local needs.”
These steps demonstrate a significant commitment from both federal and state governments to ensure accessible and effective mental health care for Australians, particularly in the Canterbury area.
