People living with or at risk of severe mental illness in Sunbury and the Macedon Ranges will have better access to support thanks to a $1.78 million funding boost.
Orygen, the national centre of excellence in youth mental health, was awarded the funding by the North Western Melbourne Primary Health Network last week to roll out programs at Cobaw Community Health Services in Kyneton and Sunbury Community Health Centre.
Orygen also partnered with Djerriwarrh Health Services, Orygen Youth Health, Odyssey House Victoria, and the Youth Support and Advocacy Service to deliver the programs.
Clinical director Liz Burgat said the aim was to tailor services that best meet the needs of young people in each of the four areas.
“Drawing on our local, national and international knowledge and expertise in youth mental health, we look forward to working closely and collaboratively with our consortium partners, local services and families in the north-west … to address the needs of young people who require a more complex level of mental health care,” Ms Burgat said.
Services will commence later this year following community and sector consultation with funding to be provided over the next 18 months.
Esther Lauaki
