Media Release from Danielle Green MP
The Andrews Labor Government has relaxed catchment boundaries in Murrindindi Shire to ensure residents who need mental health support can get it quickly and closer to home.
Member for Yan Yean and Parliamentary Secretary for Regional Victoria Danielle Green today announced that residents would be able to access mental health services from Austin Health, Goulburn Valley Health and Melbourne Health until April 2021.
The Murrindindi LGA falls within the Goulburn Valley Health catchment, however residents in towns in the south of the LGA like Kinglake, are geographically closer to services provided by Austin Health and NorthWestern Mental Health services.
Catchment boundaries in Murrindindi were first relaxed in 2009 following the deadly Black Saturday bushfires and these changes will mean residents can continue to get care close to home.
The Royal Commission into Victoria’s Mental Health System will comprehensively examine the current systems’ strengths, limitations and challenges including timely access to mental services for all Victorians.
The Government will implement all the Royal Commission recommendations, with an interim report due in November.
The Labor Government’s Community Health Taskforce is also currently considering a range of options to strengthen the delivery of health services in community settings, including improving access to primary healthcare in rural and regional communities.
If you or someone you know is in crisis or needs support call Lifeline on 13 11 14 or BeyondBlue on 1300 224 636.
