Mental Health Funding

27 July 2021

A new dedicated headspace program will assist young people in Frankston experiencing mental illness to join the workforce.

The new national program is called the Individual Placement and Support Program and will allow more than 6,000 Australians under the age of 25 experiencing mental illness to access a range of specialist vocational and employment support services.

The Morrison Government will invest $1,054,560 in the Frankston headspace site to locally deliver the initiative over four years. It is expected to be operational by the end of this month.

Senator Van said the Frankston headspace site would run the Individual Placement and Support Program to address barriers preventing people with mental illness from finding and keeping a job.

“The Morrison Government is investing heavily in this program to boost local mental health and employment services in Frankston. Like all Australians, I understand the importance of working when it comes to sense of self and self-esteem and am encouraged by the work headspace is already doing in this capacity.

“By integrating educational and workforce support with clinical mental health services, we can help our young people secure employment opportunities.

“Mental illness should not be a barrier to pursuing a fulfilling career and the Individual Placement and Support Program will ensure young people have access to the tailored support they need to thrive in any workplace,” Senator Van said.

Minister for Families and Social Services Anne Ruston said the onset of mental illness in young people can significantly affect their ability to transition from study to work. 

“This investment will provide local career assistance hand-in-hand with clinical support to help young people with mental illness enter the workforce and reach their full potential,” she explained.

ENDS