Mount Barker locals will soon have access to free mental health care with a new Head to Health service opening this year.

Summit Health has been selected through an open tender process to operate this new service.

Mount Barker Head to Health will provide a safe and welcoming space for adults to access mental health information and support from a multidisciplinary team without paying a fee or booking an appointment.

The enhanced model of care will provide urgent mental health support for people who may be experiencing distress or crisis and need on the spot care and assessment, as well as short to medium term care for people with moderate to severe mental health care needs.

Summit Health will engage with the local community to make sure this new service meets the needs of the Mount Barker community.

There are currently two Head to Health services operating in South Australia located in Adelaide (Urgent Mental Health Care Centre) and Mount Gambier. New services will also be established in northern Adelaide and Port Pirie.

Mount Barker Head to Health is jointly funded by the Australian and South Australian Governments. The Albanese Government is providing $14.2 million over four years and the South Australian Government contributing $5 million over four years to provide additional urgent and crisis support capabilities.

All Australians can call Head to Health for free on 1800 595 212 to speak to a trained professional or receive a referral to a service which meets their needs.

Quotes

Attributable to Emma McBride

The Albanese Government continues to expand the Head to Health network so more Australians can access mental health care and support.

Mount Barker Enhanced Head to Health will provide mental health care to locals in crisis and those needing more ongoing care and support.

Improving the access to mental health support and care is a key priority for the Albanese Government, including those who live outside the major cities.

Attributable to Chris Picton

We understand how important it is for South Australians to have access to mental health services.

In partnership with the Albanese Government, we are making it easier for South Australians, no matter where they live, to receive mental health support.

This Enhanced Head to Health Centre will make a big difference for Mount Barker locals who need timely, accessible and affordable mental health care.