90 SECOND STATEMENT: Bayside Mental Health Update
Deputy Speaker, I am pleased to update the house that weâre keeping up the momentum with my plan to deliver more mental health services on the Bayside in my electorate of Bonner.
The last time I spoke on it was in July after convening the Bayside Mental Health Working Group which was attended by local mental health and community providers.
My aim was to bring these important voices together and start a conversation around the services locals are calling for.
Since then, meaningful progress has been made.
Iâve met with Assistant Minister to the Prime Minister for Mental Health and Suicide Prevention, David Coleman who has provided his support.
Iâve also been meeting regularly with Brisbane South PHN to determine how we can fill the gaps.
And after being made aware of a mental health plan they are working on alongside Feros Care with the intention to be tailored to the youth of the Bayside, last week I reconvened the working group.
Over 20 local mental health experts and community providers heard from Brisbane South PHN and Feros Care who presented this early intervention and prevention approach.
Deputy Speaker, young people are the largest cohort of Australianâs experiencing problematic loneliness.
Social connections are the greatest protection against depression and are proven to reduce suicidal behaviour.
Thatâs why responding to it by delivering accessible support services is of great urgency.
The mental health of our community cannot be underestimated, and I look forward to continuing to work with Brisbane South PHN and the Bayside Mental Health Working Group.