Tasmanians living with mental illness being supported by the government’s HASI pilot program deserve answers about their long-term future.
Shadow Minister for Mental Health Sarah Lovell said as the HASI pilot trial progressed, the government was yet to announce a long-term plan to continue supporting the 16 Tasmanians taking part, as well as many others who would benefit from this model.
“HASI is not a new announcement – the funding was earmarked in the last two budgets, and the program has been running during this time in its pilot stage,” Ms Lovell said.
“It may still be early days for the trial, but the money has been spent, and the government is yet to provide any confirmation about what will happen to the program once this pilot stage is over.
“What happens to the 16 people currently taking part in this trial once it ends?
“Labor is calling on the government to commit to ongoing funding for the HASI project so these Tasmanians aren’t left without this vital support at the end of the pilot, and to ensure the future of this program after the trial period ends.
“We need long-term solutions to support Tasmanians living with mental illness – a two year trial isn’t enough.”
Sarah Lovell
Shadow Minister for Mental Health
