A mental health service in Melton for adults aged 26 and older has extended its operating hours.
The Melton Mental Health and Wellbeing Local is now available between 9am and 8.30pm on weekdays and 10am to 5pm on Saturday and Sunday.
The free service is currently accessible online and does not require a medicare card or GP referral for an appointment.
It provides care and treatment for those experiencing mental illness or psychological distress and acts as a ‘front door’ to the health system.
Melton MP Steve McGhie said increasing the availability of such critical support would greatly benefit residents facing mental health issues.
“The Mental Health and Wellbeing Local in Melton means people in our community don’t need to travel far to get help – now they can get that help after hours and on weekends.”
The Melton local was established in October 2023 and is staffed by qualified mental health professionals who offer face-to-face telehealth appointments by phone or video calls.
Mental Health Minister Ingrid Stitt said the system meant no more “jumping through hoops” when getting mental health help.
“We need to make the mental health system easier to access – that’s exactly what the Mental Health and Wellbeing Local in Melton is doing by extending its hours,” she said.
Information: betterhealth.vic.gov.au/mhwlocal.
