People living in the Illawarra can now access a free, new walk-in mental health service for adults who may be experiencing moderate psychological distress. 

The centre in Wollongong was visited today by The Hon. Emma McBride MP (Federal Assistant Minister for Mental Health and Suicide Prevention) and The Hon. Alison Byrnes MP (Member for Cunningham). 

Alison Byrnes MP said: “It is important more people in our region can get the help they need with the opening of the new Wollongong Mental Health Hub. 

“This service is free and no appointment or referral is needed - walk ins are welcome to help connect you with the best service for your care needs or you can call the Hub directly. This Hub will improve access to and awareness of mental health care, especially for people who haven’t accessed mental health supports before,” she said. 

According to Prudence Buist, CEO of COORDINARE - South Eastern NSW PHN, “Wollongong Mental Health Hub is a safe and welcoming space to connect with if you, or someone you care about, is experiencing difficulties with their mental health or social and emotional wellbeing. 

“The Wollongong service is one of five Mental Health Hubs and two Head to Health Centres opening in South Eastern NSW in 2024, funded by the Australian Government and commissioned by COORDINARE. 

“The new Wollongong Mental Health Hub has been co-designed with services and the community to target local needs. Provided by Stride Health, the hub offers support to improve wellbeing and mental health, either in-person, over the phone, virtual or group sessions,” said Ms Buist. 

Stride Mental Health’s CEO, Drikus van der Merwe said, “We are delighted to be working closely with COORDINARE to meet community need through our multi-disciplinary service model, providing face-to-face and telehealth mental health services to clients of all ages.  

“The aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic and current cost of living stressors has seen an escalation in distress and support needs for families across the regions we service.  

“We encourage anyone experiencing mental health issues to reach out and seek help as there is a range of support options available,” said Mr van der Merwe. 

Wollongong Mental Health Hub contact details:  

2/36 – 42 Auburn St, Wollongong 

Head to Health phoneline, Monday to Friday, 9am – 5pm, 1800 595 212. 

coordinare.org.au/community/head-to-health-and-mental-health-hubs/