The ACT Government’s $2024–25 Budget allocates more than $15 million over the next four years to community health services, to improve early and accessible mental health support and to reduce hospital demand.

“The ACT Government continues to invest in mental health services so that Canberrans can access care when and where they need it,” Chief Minister Andrew Barr said.

“This includes investing in mental health services in our hospitals and health centres as well as in the community.”

The Budget will fund:

• The second Police, Ambulance, and Clinician Early Response (PACER) team for acute mental health services.
• The co-design of a new mental health service for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander youths
• Community child and youth mental health support programs, including MindMap Online Navigation Portal, WOKE, Stepping Stones, and Youth Mental Health Promotion program
• The implementation of 10 accommodation support packages under the Housing and Accommodation Support Initiative
• The Step-Up-Step Down at home program
• The Detention Exit Community Outreach program to help mentally ill people transition back into the community

Emma Davidson, ACT Minister for Mental Health, said: “The funding in this year’s budget ensures the continuation of services that are supporting Canberrans facing mental health challenges to get the help they need in the community.

“When people have early access to mental health support, they are more likely to stay healthy, engaged and connected in their community. The ACT Government is committed to providing accessible mental health and wellbeing support when and where you need it.

“Importantly, this year’s budget invests in youth mental health services to support young Canberrans have greater access to support and [to] grow healthy and happy. It’s critical we fund community services like WOKE, Stepping Stones, MindMap and the Youth Mental Health program to keep young people healthy.

“The ACT Government is also committed to supporting culturally responsive mental health services for First Nations people through the co-design of a new Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander youth mental health service.”

Mick Gentleman, ACT Minister for Fire and Emergency Services, said: “We welcome this investment, which will help us deliver on our commitment to provide comprehensive and timely mental health support for the Canberra community. The PACER model has proven to be invaluable in addressing mental health crises, offering faster assessments, connecting individuals with vital community resources, and reducing the strain on our emergency response teams.

“By extending this successful program, we are not only bolstering the health and wellbeing of those in crisis, but also ensuring a safer, and more supportive community for all Canberrans. This is a testament to our dedication to innovate, and collaborate to address the complex challenges surrounding mental health.”