A dedicated social and emotional wellbeing centre for Indigenous people in South Australia will be established, with an interim service set to open by the end of 2025.
The Commonwealth and South Australian Governments are jointly funding the centre under the National Mental Health and Suicide Prevention Agreement, with a total of $10.8 million commitment to the project.
Federal Minister for Indigenous Australians, Senator Malarndirri McCarthy, said the centre reflects the government's commitment to culturally informed mental health care.
"Tailored, sensitive and culturally informed approaches are required for First Nations people and communities," she said.
"This new centre demonstrates our commitment to co-design with states to deliver coordinated, holistic, and culturally safe care that supports the mental health and wellbeing of First Nations people."
Located in Adelaide's CBD, the centre will provide mental health support and wellbeing services for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander adults and children across South Australia.
It will offer holistic and culturally appropriate care, including traditional healing methods.
Staff will assist in coordinating care, including referrals to community mental health services, social and emotional wellbeing programs, primary care services, and Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Services.
The centre's design and service model were developed following consultations with Aboriginal communities in South Australia and the state's mental health sector.
Minister Ged Kearney emphasised the importance of mental health within Aboriginal communities.
"We know that suicide has a devastating impact on First Nations families and communities, and the Albanese Labor Government is committed to making mental health and suicide prevention a national priority," she said.
"Good healthcare is about trust, understanding, and ensuring people feel safe when they seek support.
"First Nations people face unique mental health challenges, often shaped by intergenerational trauma, discrimination, and systemic barriers."
Under the National Agreement on Closing the Gap, all governments have committed to ensuring First Nations people receive the highest standard of social and emotional wellbeing support.