Shellharbour Medicare Mental Health Centre officially opens
31 May 2024
Adults experiencing moderate to severe psychological distress, suicidal thoughts or mental health crisis can now access a range of support services at the new Shellharbour Medicare Mental Health Centre. The centre was officially opened by The Hon. Emma McBride MP (Federal Assistant Minister for Mental Health and Suicide Prevention), The Hon. Stephen Jones (Member for Whitlam) and COORDINARE – South Eastern NSW PHN.
Assistant Minister McBride said: “The new Shellharbour Medicare Mental Health Centre offers locals access to free, walk-in mental health care and support, close to home.
“Mental health is as important as physical health, and we are committed to all Australians getting the mental health support they need, wherever they live. Our government is delivering whole of life mental health care and support with Kids Hubs (0 to 12 years), headspace (12 to 25 years), and adult Medicare Mental Health Centre (18 years plus).”
Stephen Jones, Member for Whitlam said, “I know how important having a free safe mental health service is going to be for people in Shellharbour. Our government is investing in Medicare Mental Health Centres, because having accessible and safe places to address mental health needs is essential to having a strong and healthy community.
“I want people to be able to access local health services using their Medicare card, not their credit card and I’m pleased that Shellharbour is joining the network of Medicare Mental Health Centres we’re opening across the country.”
Prudence Buist, CEO of COORDINARE, said, “Mental ill-health affects people from all walks of life. Many people in our region will experience a time when they need to reach out for support for themselves, a loved one or a friend. This service is free and no appointment or referral is needed.”
People can access Medicare Mental Health Centres by calling the Head to Health line on 1800 595 212 and asking for support, or by visiting a centre – whichever you feel most comfortable with. The service will operate from Monday to Friday between 8.30am and 5pm (except public holidays) and to 6:30pm on Tuesdays.
“Sometimes finding the support you need can seem overwhelming. Rather than jumping straight into a service that may not suit you, it can be helpful to talk to someone who can guide you to the right service, based on your individual needs and goals – and that’s what the mental health service is designed to do,” said Ms Buist.
Adam Phillips, CEO of Grand Pacific Health said, “Shellharbour Medicare Mental Health Centre’s multidisciplinary care team will work with you to find the right support for your needs. They will use their knowledge of the range of services available in your region to identify what support is best for you.
“This could be support through the Shellharbour Medicare Mental Health Centre (or connecting with psychological intervention, peer support, drug and alcohol counselling, family and relationship support, and psychosocial groups). If there is an external service that will better meet your needs, we will link you with them,” said Mr Phillips.
Shellharbour Medicare Mental Health Centre has been commissioned by COORDINARE – South Eastern NSW PHN and is provided by Grand Pacific Health, located at 172 Shellharbour Road, Warilla.
For more information about Medicare mental health services visit or Head to Health Website or phone 1800 595 212.