The Andrews Labor Government is ensuring residents in Victoria’s south west have access to the mental health support they need, close to home.
The Victorian Budget 2021/22 will invest $10.9 million to deliver an additional five acute mental health beds at Warrnambool Base Hospital.
The investment will also redesign the hospital’s acute mental health inpatient unit, improving the model of care and creating a dedicated area for vulnerable consumers, including women, older people and people who identify as LGBTI.
Victoria’s south west region has the highest incidence of patients with a mental health conditions in the state.
As the designated mental health service provider for the region, Warrnambool Base Hospital has been experiencing a steady increase of demand for mental health care services.
Responding to the recommendations from the Royal Commission into Victoria’s Mental Health, this funding will improve access and recovery outcomes for members of the local community experiencing mental ill health in a contemporary and therapeutic treatment setting.
The investment in additional mental health beds builds on the $384.2 million provided by the Labor Government for the redevelopment of the Warrnambool Base Hospital.
The redevelopment will include a new multistorey clinical tower that will incorporate a new emergency department, extra operating theatres, new patient facilities and more acute beds.
Last year’s Budget invested an extra $868.6 million in mental health services, representing the single largest investment in mental health by any state government. It provides the foundation as we begin to build our mental health system from the ground up to ensure Victorians have the support they need, close to home.
Quotes attributable to Member for Western Victoria Gayle Tierney
“We are committed to implementing every single recommendation of the Royal Commission as we start work on the fundamental rebuild of our mental health system.”
“More acute mental health beds will make a real difference in Victoria’s south west and respond to the high mental health needs of the region.”
