Regional Queenslanders are getting better access to quality mental health care with the Kingaroy Head to Health official opening today.

The Kingaroy Head to Health is one of sixty-one centres being delivered by the Albanese Government across Australia.

These centres offer a safe and welcoming place for adults to get help, advice and support for their mental health needs, free of charge and without an appointment.

Services include short to medium term care for adults with moderate to severe mental health needs, and immediate support for people in crisis.

The Kingaroy Head to Health first opened its doors at the end of last year and is already providing much-needed support across the South Burnett Region and beyond.

Every Head to Health is co-designed with people who have lived experience and with local communities. This means the centres are tailored to local needs and complement existing services.

Kingaroy joins the network of Head to Health services being established across Queensland. Townsville Head to Health is already in operation and next month the interim service in Ipswich will move to its permanent home.

A further 5 services are expected to open from mid-2024 located in Cairns, Bundaberg, Rockhampton, Logan and the Redland Bay area.

Kingaroy Head to Health is located in the old garden centre building, next door to Kingaroy Joinery, in Kingaroy Street.

People unable to attend a centre can use the Head to Health phone service, with a free call to 1800 595 212 for guidance, advice or referral from a trained mental health professional.

Quotes attributable to Assistant Minister, Emma McBride:

“Many Australians don’t know where to turn if they, or a loved one, are struggling with their mental health.”

“That’s why we’re building a network of Head to Health services in Queensland and right across the nation.”

“So, support is readily available, when and where people need it - free of charge and without an appointment.” 

Quotes attributable to Assistant Minister for Regional Development and Senator for Queensland, Anthony Chisholm:

“We understand the importance of investing in high-quality mental health care, which is why it’s vital that people in regional, rural and remote areas have the same access to mental health services as those in our major cities.

“The Albanese Government will continue to invest in boosting our regional mental health services so that all Australians, no matter where they live, can access quality and affordable mental health care.”