Mental health services in Far North Queensland will expand thanks to a $27.3 million Queensland Government investment.
Currently, the Cairns Integrated Mental Health Service provides community mental health services, with Alcohol and Other Drug Services (AODS) located in a different building.
This significant redevelopment will create an integrated health facility with services including AODS, primary healthcare, and non-government organisations to provide other speciality services for mental health clients under one roof.
Funding will expand existing services and deliver new peer workers with lived experience of mental illness or alcohol and other drug use who are able to draw on their own life-changing experience to better connect and support others on their recovery journey.
Models of care will be co-designed with current and future community needs in mind, involving health partners and consumers.
Construction is expected to start in 2025 and completed the following year.
Cairns and Hinterland Hospital and Health Service Chief Executive Leena Singh said the Cairns and Hinterland region had been identified as a high priority location for increased investment in mental health services and support.
‘This is due to our growing population and the region’s higher than average suicide rates,’ she said.
‘The upgraded centre will provide for improved clinical pathways and experiences for mental health consumers.
‘Our consumers will be able to access tertiary-level mental health services, alcohol and other drugs services, and primary health support, which puts the consumer at the centre of care.
‘Expanding our mental health community services can help reduce the burden on hospitals and emergency services, as individuals will have access to early intervention and ongoing support.
‘This not only benefits the individuals experiencing psychological distress, but also contributes to the overall wellbeing of our communities.’
Cairns and Hinterland Hospital and Health Service Mental Health Service Director Wade Norrie said the investment was welcome and would improve the mental health services in the region.
‘The Sheridan St building will be redeveloped to deliver an integrated mental health, alcohol and other drug centre,’ he said.
‘Services will enhance our models of care and include partnerships with non-government organisations and specialty professions to meet the needs of our clients.
‘The $1.3 million investment to expand existing community-based mental health services will include the creation of two new lived experience peer worker roles within our community services.
‘These roles will support system navigation, treatment links, care, and recovery for our consumers.’
Mental health support is available. Visit Cairns and Hinterland mental health support services.