headspace welcomes Victorian Royal Commission’s Interim Report

headspace National Youth Mental Health Foundation welcomes the Victorian Government’s focus on mental health and applauds the commitment of Victorian Premier, Daniel Andrews to implement all recommendations.   

The Interim Report of the Victorian Royal Commission into Mental Health summarises major themes emerging from the Commission’s work to date including the need for greater investment in our young people and more support for carers and families.

Commenting on the Interim Report, headspace CEO Jason Trethowan said this was a great step towards ensuring that anyone experiencing mental ill-health, regardless of their condition or location, get the help they need.

“It’s great to see that the Interim Report also covers key points that align with the submission from headspace to the Royal Commission, including the fact that young people are adversely affected by mental health, the demand for services like headspace and the fact that stigma is still a huge issue.  

“We commend the Commission for the incredible work that’s been undertaken to date to both understand the pressures on the system and firmly commit to a strong solution.

“Suicide is a major issue not only in Victoria but right throughout the country and sadly, it remains the leading cause of death for young people.

“It’s wonderful to see the recommendations from the Commission and the commitment from the Premier to make changes by placing emphasis on follow-up care and support for people after a suicide attempt, with a strong focus on young people. This is a huge opportunity to turn the tide on the devastating losses we continue to face and it would be fantastic to see other states follow Victoria’s lead.

“The Commission has also recommended that the first residential mental health service be co-produced by people with a lived experience. Co-production with young people and friends and family is something headspace implements at every stage to create a service that truly belongs to young people. headspace has seen great success here so we again applaud the Commission for taking this on and ensuring the service works for those who’ll be utilising it.

“This Report provides a huge opportunity to move in the right direction and to make changes to ensure anyone going through a tough time can get the support they need and get back on track.

“Now is the time to make some serious changes and fix a fragmented system.” Trethowan said.

 For media enquiries please contact:

 Bronte Tarn-Weir, headspace Media & Communications Manager: 0413 025 385 or media@headspace.org.au