A new Medicare Mental Health Centre will soon open in Mparntwe/Alice Springs, providing free support for people in distress without the need for an appointment, referral or treatment plan.
The centre is part of the federal government's $1.1 billion mental health election commitment and will offer expanded services, staffed by a multidisciplinary team of clinicians and peer workers.
Central Australia Aboriginal Congress (CAAC) CEO, Donna Ah Chee, said it was crucial that Australia's health system improves access to care — particularly for people with severe mental illness.
"The impact of intergenerational trauma means that Central Australia has a high prevalence of severe mental illness, and these people need better community-based, ongoing care. Their families also need a place they can more easily turn to for support," she said.
Minister for Indigenous Australians, Malarndirri McCarthy, said the new centre was part of the government's commitment to strengthening Medicare and expanding access to mental health support.
"All Australians should have access to the health care they need. This new and expanded Medicare Mental Health Centre will ensure residents of Alice Springs and nearby communities can access the mental health care they need," she said.
The Northern Territory Primary Health Network is commissioning the centre, with CAAC and Neami National selected as providers.
Assistant Minister for Mental Health and Suicide Prevention, Emma McBride, said: "Alice Springs residents will soon be able to walk in and access the free support and care they need from a multidisciplinary care team. The centre will be led by Congress and Neami, delivering strong cultural and community connections across Alice Springs and Central Australia."
Ms Ah Chee said CAAC welcomed the partnership with Neami National to establish a "really accessible new Mparntwe Medicare Mental Health Centre".
She added it would serve the entire community, while also ensuring people with serious mental illness feel comfortable accessing care and support locally.
The federal government is building a national network of 91 Medicare Mental Health Centres, including three in the Northern Territory. Forty-five centres are already open, including in Darwin and Katherine.
Member for Lingiari, Marion Scrymgour, said access to affordable and timely mental health services was vital for the wellbeing of Territorians.
"If you are unable to secure an appointment or you cannot afford to see a mental health professional, this can have a big impact on people's mental wellbeing," she said.
"The Albanese Government understands this and is working hard to get people the support they need. I strongly welcome this investment in the new Alice Springs Medicare Mental Health Centre."
