On Monday, July 28 the Victorian Government announced 66 new mental health roles across the state for graduates, beginning in February next year.
Mental Health and Wellbeing Locals across the state, including a service in the Campaspe, Greater Bendigo and Loddon shires, will benefit from the expanded workforce.
Operating out of locations at Echuca and Bendigo, the service offers free mental health support and treatment without the need for a GP referral or Medicare card.
Subject to hiring processes, Echuca and Bendigo will share a new social worker graduate, five wellbeing support early career workers, a wellbeing supervisor and a part-time social worker senior clinician.
Mental Health Minister Ingrid Stitt said the graduate program, which began in February, was supporting the future of Victoria’s mental health system.
“Every Local across Victoria will have early career mental health workers on the ground, supported by experienced educators and supervisors,” she said.
“(It gives) passionate early career workers the hands-on experience, support and training they need to build long, rewarding careers.”
The service assists Victorians experiencing mental illness and psychological distress, including co-occurring substance use or addiction.
Support is given in-person, via telehealth, and through outreach services, with care plans tailored to individuals.
The Local in Echuca is located at 222 Ogilvie Ave, and can be phoned on 5412 6600 for support, walk-in hours, or appointments.
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