Monash headspace gets green light
Published on 29 March 2019
Monash Council welcomes the announcement by the Federal Government that it will fund a headspace service in Monash.
This commitment by the Coalition Government follows one by the Federal Labor Opposition in October last year to deliver a headspace in Monash.
Headspace is a service that supports the mental wellbeing of young people up to the age of 25.
Mayor Shane McCluskey said the bipartisan support for this critical facility for Monash youth was a fantastic outcome after a long campaign by young people, particularly the Monash Young Person’s Reference Group, and Council.
“The determination and dedication of our young people, who have campaigned for more than five years for a headspace in Monash has finally paid off,” Cr McCluskey said.
The campaign had included gathering more than 4000 postcards signed by the community in support of a headspace and a number of meetings over the past few years between Mayors, young people and Federal politicians, including a trip to Canberra to meet with the ministerial advisor for Minister for Health Greg Hunt.
Last year the advocacy included the #RaiseYourHand4MonashYouth campaign featuring a powerful video of young people speaking about the effects of mental health issues on the youth of Monash.
“We are in awe of the young people in this community who have fought so hard to have this facility in Monash,” Cr McCluskey said.
“There is no doubt that having greater access to help for issues relating to youth mental health, like a headspace service, will make an enormous difference in the lives of our young people, assisting them to live happier and healthier lives and reach their full potential.
“This result is a team effort led by former Mayors Rebecca Paterson and Paul Klisaris and a dedicated team of officers across Council.
“We are also grateful for the support from the Monash Leader, who have continued to highlight the critical need for a headspace and partnered with us to advocate for funding for this facility.”
Media Contact: Jo Robertson 0418 391 979 or email Joanne.Robertson@monash.vic.gov.au