Federal Member for Gilmore, Ann Sudmalis has welcomed the announcement that the Coalition Government will provide a record $1.45 billion for community mental health services and change the funding model to make sure services and jobs are secure and said the funding will be provided through the Government’s 31 Primary Health Networks (PHNs). “PHN’s were setup as an independent regional health organisation to commission health services including mental health, in response to the needs of local communities throughout Australia, including that of Gilmore,” said Mrs. Sudmalis. “The South Eastern NSW PHN is expected to receive $41,586,873.00 over a three year period to help tailor services to meet the specific needs in our region and help deliver a stronger, more integrated mental health system.” “I certainly look forward to informed, community lead decisions in this funding injection” Mrs. Sudmalis said. “The record $1.45 billion funding commitment spread over three years will commence from July this year until 2021-22 and is $170 million more than the amount provided for the previous three years. It is estimated that the $1.45 billion funding includes: $177 million for mental health nurses $77 million for suicide prevention including Indigenous suicide $74 million for the mental health of those in residential aged care $89 million for Indigenous mental health $617 million for youth mental health including headspace $399 million for psychological therapies for hard to reach populations Ms Sudmalis said that the Government will also change the way that PHN’s are funded to ensure that the staff and mental health professionals who deliver these critical services will no longer face uncertainty on short term contracts. "The Coalition Government has prioritized better mental health for all Australians with $4.7 billion expected to be spent on mental health this financial year." the member for Gilmore said
Above: Ann Sudmalis on a visit to the Tuross Head in 2018
