Mental Health Minister Andrea Mitchell and Regional Development Minister Terry Redman today announced a new community mental health facility for Bunbury had entered the next phase of development, with $9.057 million of Royalties for Regions funding being finalised.
Ms Mitchell said the 10-bed step-up, step-down mental health facility located at Lot 54 Vittoria Road, would provide short-term residential support and individualised care for people following hospitalisation for mental illness, or at risk of deteriorating mental health and possible hospitalisation.
“There are similar facilities already operating successfully in Joondalup and Rockingham, and the Bunbury centre is one of three currently funded for regional areas,” Ms Mitchell said.
“Planning and establishing these facilities is one of the most significant mental health reforms introduced by the Liberal National Government.
“We know that by offering recovery-focused care, close to support from family and friends; and by strengthening services in the community, we can provide more effective care as well as reduce demand for hospital beds.”
Ms Mitchell was in Bunbury last month where she addressed a Meth Strategy Forum and recognised the need for more mental health support in regional WA.
Mr Redman said the Royalties for Regions investment would provide access to targeted support services to improve the quality of life for regional residents.
“Step-up, step-down facilities are an innovative and contemporary way of delivering mental health care services in regional WA,” he said.
“This is a milestone venture that supports the wellbeing and sustainability of regional communities, and it’s an important investment for Royalties for Regions.”
In line with the Western Australian Mental Health, Alcohol and Other Drug Services Plan 2015- 2025: Better Choices Better Lives, the Mental Health Commission is also progressing plans to establish community step-up, step-down facilities in regional centres at Karratha and Broome.
