Aaron Violi (Casey, Liberal Party) Share this | Hansard source

Thursday, 9 October, is headspace Day—an annual day dedicated to the mental health and wellbeing of young Australians. I'd like to thank the dedicated teams at headspace Lilydale and headspace Knox for the work they do in supporting young people in our community. But, in an electorate that spans over 2,700 square kilometres, we undoubtedly need more services available. The sad reality is that suicide remains the leading cause of death for young Australians aged 18 to 24. Too many young Australians are struggling with wait times, the expense of appointments and the ongoing stigma that leaves many afraid to reach out for support.

My community in Casey has felt acutely the government's failure when it comes to mental health support. The former Liberal government funded the Lilydale Youth Hub but, when the Albanese Labor government won the 2022 federal election, they cut funding and forced the hub to close down. The government has also slashed Medicare-funded mental health sessions from 20 to just 10, halving the spots available for young people in need. I've met with headspace in my community, and I know they are at capacity. Our community needs access to alternative local mental health supports, and I'll continue advocating for the mental health supports our community deserves and needs.

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