The Allan Labor Government is making sure young people in the Grampians region have access to specialised mental health support and care they need.
Minister for Mental Health Ingrid Stitt today opened the new Youth Prevention and Recovery Care (YPARC) centre in Newington.
The free service offers specialist, around-the-clock care for young people aged 16 to 25 years.
The voluntary, referral-based service is designed to feel like a home away from home – enabling young people to access the mental health care they need, while maintaining connection to their community.
YPARCs provide early intervention and clinical care in a safe and welcoming environment – stepping in before crisis escalates and reducing the need for hospital admission.
The Ballarat YPARC includes:
- 10 private bedrooms
- shared kitchen and dining facilities
- outdoor gardens
- dedicated spaces for visits from loved ones.
Young people can continue to attend work or school, while receiving personalised treatment and support.
The service is delivered by a dedicated team of clinicians and peer-support workers who will also guide group and confidence building activities.
Around 75 per cent of mental ill health emerges before the age of 25.
Early access to support can make a significant difference to a young person’s recovery and long-term wellbeing.
YPARCs also provide care for young people in the early stages of recovery who need a short period of extra support.
Operated by Grampians Health, the service is part of the Labor Government’s $141 million investment to double YPARC capacity statewide.
A One Nation Liberal Coalition have a $40 billion cuts plan, putting young Victorians at risk.
If given the chance, they will slash crucial mental health services and put extra pressure on the health system.
As stated by Minister for Mental Health Ingrid Stitt
“The Ballarat YPARC will provide young people with a safe, welcoming place to access the care they need.”
“We are delivering services just like this right across Victoria, because we know how important they are.”
As stated by Member for Wendouree Juliana Addison
“Our Ballarat YPARC means young people in our community can stay connected to family, friends and school while they recover.”
As stated by Member for Eureka Michaela Settle
“This is an incredible service that will transform how young people across the region access mental health care.”
As stated by Member for Ripon Martha Haylett
“This great new service will give more young people across our region access to specialist mental health care without the stress of travelling long distances.”
