Headspace discussion continues

Federal Member for Wannon, Dan Tehan convened a meeting of Ararat health and community leaders to meet with Senator Anne Ruston, the Shadow Minister for Health and Aged Care to support the application for a headspace service to be located at Ararat.

In attendance was Mayor of Ararat Rural City Council Bob Sanders, Councillor Jo Armstrong, East Grampians Health Service Chief Executive Nick Bush and Director of Community Services Sarah Woodburn, as well as One Red Tree Resource Centre founders Carly McKinnis and Tammie Meehan.

Mr Tehan highlighted the need for a headspace at Ararat to support the mental health of the young people in his electorate, indicating there was a gap.

“The significant funding boost for services a headspace would bring is much needed and this would integrate and strengthen the wonderful service One Red Tree are offering,” Mr Bush said.

Senator Ruston said organisations such as One Red Tree are essential to delivering fit for purpose mental health care across the community and demonstrate the effectiveness of locally lead services.

“Equitable access to quality mental health services is key to ensure all Australians receive the support they need, regardless of their postcode,” Senator Ruston said.

Mr Bush thanked Mr Tehan for organising the meeting and lobbying on behalf of Ararat.