Ross Vasta (Bonner, Liberal Party) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

Each year, over one million young people experience mental health issues. Yesterday marked national headspace Day, to not only recognise this fantastic organisation but to encourage everyone to show their support for young people across Australia.

The mental health and wellbeing of young people remains a priority of our government and, since 2006, the Australian government has provided more than 3.6 million services and supported more than 626,000 young people. The global coronavirus pandemic has had an unprecedented impact on the lives of young people right across the country, and services like headspace have been instrumental in providing a safe space with professional services to offer support. In my neighbouring electorate we have a fantastic headspace centre at Capalaba, and I know the community has benefited greatly from their presence. There is no doubt their programs and services have had a positive impact on helping young people strengthen their wellbeing and manage their mental health better.

I'm very pleased our government is supporting this fantastic organisation with $130 million during 2020-21 and has also committed to expanding the headspace network to 153 services by 2022. Thank you to all the amazing counsellors and support staff who are helping young people with their mental wellbeing. The work you do is so vital and builds on creating a positive community for all.