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Monash headspace gets $2 million Labor federal election promise

Young Monash people battling mental health issues could be big winners at the federal election, with Labor promising $2 million for a dedicated headspace.

Former Monash Mayor Paul Klisaris, youth ambassador Wesley Chen, Monash Young Person’s Reference Group chair Stacey Lee and Cr Rebecca Paterson.
Former Monash Mayor Paul Klisaris, youth ambassador Wesley Chen, Monash Young Person’s Reference Group chair Stacey Lee and Cr Rebecca Paterson.

Young Monash people battling mental health issues could be big winners at the federal election, with Labor promising $2 million for a dedicated headspace.

Chisholm federal Labor candidate Jennifer Yang promised the money, which has been fought for by Monash Leader and Monash Council.

Ms Yang said the level of mental health issues among youth people in Chisholm were an increasing and ongoing concern.

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“We know from visiting many headspace centres that the demand for youth mental health services is growing,” she said.

“In 2017, suicide was the leading cause of death among people aged between 15 and 44 years. This is heartbreaking and confronting.

“When a young person is brave enough to put their hand up and ask for help, they should be able to access the appropriate services.

“But for many young people, services are not easily accessible.

“I have been a strong advocate for a headspace in Monash, and am optimistic that the Government will support our bid.”

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Chisholm federal Liberal candidate Gladys Liu also expressed support for a centre, but couldn’t promise any cash.

Monash Mayor Shane McCluskey said the advocacy from the city’s young people was continuing.

“Through continued media coverage and social media we are gaining more support for these services in Monash,” he said.

“The campaign for a headspace is also a key plank of advocacy campaigns by the South East Melbourne group of councils and the Eastern Region Group of councils in the lead-up to the federal election.”

Chisholm federal independent MP Julia Banks again refused to answer questions from Monash Leader.

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Original URL: https://www.heraldsun.com.au/leader/east/monash-headspace-gets-2-million-labor-federal-election-promise/news-story/f78ecca089379a06f8a26e3eaac9bb7d