The Turnbull Government will provide $33.8 million to Lifeline to significantly boost their telephone crisis service and help those with mental health issues in Berowra.
Over 1 million Australians reach out to Lifeline each year and it receives the largest call volume of any crisis support service.
Member for Berowra, Julian Leeser, said this funding will mean the charity can answer more calls, helping them answer close to 100 per cent of calls.
“Funding will also support the coaching and development of crisis supporters, equipping them with more skills to deal with the complex range of issues which can be brought up during a call,” Mr Leeser said.
“We know how important Lifeline’s 24 hour service is to the community. Our local volunteers, through Lifeline Harbour to Hawkesbury, provide incredible support to people seeking help during some of their hardest hours. I am immensely pleased that we will continue the critical services delivered by Lifeline.”
Health Minister Greg Hunt said sometimes it’s hard to reach out for help but during times of need Australians should know someone will be available to hear their concerns and offer them help.
“We are forever grateful to the crisis supporters and staff of Lifeline, no doubt they have saved countless lives,” Minister Hunt said.
“The Turnbull Government is investing over $4.2 billion dollars into mental health services this year and we have made mental health a national priority.
“We have also provided over $213 million (from 2011-12 to 2018-19) for a range of nationally available telephone and web based services, including Kids Helpline Reachout, and On The Line.”
If you are thinking about suicide or experiencing a personal crisis, help is available. Please contact Lifeline on 13 11 14.
