You’ll have more ways to get free mental health support without needing a GP referral or Medicare card, with a wider network of Mental Health and Wellbeing Locals. Seven new venues will open across Victoria, allowing more people to get the support they need. These new services will build on the 15 existing Mental Health and Wellbeing Locals, which have already helped over 23,000 Victorians. The new Locals are expected to open from late 2025.
Mental Health and Wellbeing Locals
The new venues will open in the Cardinia, Darebin, Maribyrnong, Maroondah, Port Phillip, Wyndham and Mount Alexander Local Government Areas. The Mount Alexander location will service those in the Mount Alexander, Central Goldfields and Macedon Ranges.
Get the help you need when experiencing mental illness or psychological distress, including co-occurring substance abuse or addiction. Support is delivered in-person, via telehealth and via outreach services, with a care plan designed to reflect your goals and preferences. You’ll have access to a wide network of professionals, such as psychologists, peer workers, allied health and more. If needed, family, carers and supporters can also be involved.
Here is an example of what it look’s like:
“We are delivering the biggest mental health reform in our nation’s history — and our Mental Health and Wellbeing Locals are key to making sure all Victorians can access free and compassionate care, close to home,” said Minister for Mental Health Ingrid Stitt.
This free service is for people aged 26 and over. Younger people aged 12 to 25 are encouraged to visit headspace instead.
Current locations in Melbourne include:
- Brimbank – open for walk-ins or call for support – 45 Dickson St, Sunshine VIC 3020
- Frankston – open for walk-ins or call for support – Ground Floor, 454 Nepean Hwy, Frankston VIC 3199
- Greater Dandenong – call for support, walk-in hours or to book an appointment – 29b Langhorne Street, Dandenong VIC 3175
- Melton – open for walk-ins or call for support – 223 Bridge Road, Cobblebank VIC 3338
- Whittlesea – open for walk-ins or call for support – Suite 7/1 Danaher Drive, South Morang VIC 3752
- Yarra Ranges – open for walk-ins or call for support – Lower Ground, 61-65 Anderson Street, Lilydale VIC 3140
If there isn’t a Local near you, you can also look for a Mental Health and Wellbeing Hub, which is open to all ages and is also free.
Please note that these aren’t emergency services. If there is a life-threatening situation or a risk of immediate harm, contact Triple Zero (000). For 24-hour crisis support, contact Lifeline at 13 11 14.
To learn more about Mental Health and Wellbeing Locals, click here.