$52m to help save our youth

GIVING hope to young people who are experiencing mental illness is at the heart of a $51.8 million funding boost for support centres across Australia, says Prime Minister Scott Morrison.

Making the announcement yesterday, the Coalition pledged the extra money to Headspace, which runs 107 youth mental health centres nationwide.

The funds will help the centres employ more staff, reducing waiting times. About $12.8 million will go towards Headspace’s online counselling and treatment programs.

Mr Morrison said Headspace was one of the most successful mental health initiatives in the country and was changing young people’s lives.

“Headspace isn’t just about getting counselling services,” he said.

“It’s everything from helping young people get a job to supporting their physical activity to improving their relationships. It is dealing with the whole person.”

The funding boost was an example of the Coalition’s efforts to generate hope in young Australians, he said.

“Whether it’s getting them support on mental health or getting them into a job because we’re running a strong economy … this is about giving young Australians hope.”

The extra funds are on top of the $95.7 million the Government already spends on the centres each year.