Wanneroo, WA — Expectant and new parents in Western Australia will soon have access to free, personalised mental health support with the establishment of a new perinatal mental health centre in Wanneroo. The facility, set to be operational by 2026, will provide much-needed psychological services to families during the crucial perinatal period — from pregnancy through to a baby’s first birthday.
This centre will be the second of its kind in the state, following the recent opening of a similar facility in Harrisdale earlier this week. The centres, funded by the Australian Government, are designed to address the mental health needs of parents during a time when anxiety and depression affect up to one in five women and one in 10 men.
The new Wanneroo centre aims to meet growing local demand for mental health services, offering support at no cost to families. The facility will provide a range of services, including counselling and psychological care, to help parents navigate the challenges of the perinatal period.
To access services, parents will need a referral from a GP and a mental health care plan.
Federal Minister for Health, Mark Butler, highlighted the importance of early intervention in reducing the long-term impact of perinatal mental illness on families. “Becoming a parent is a profound change, and for many, it can be overwhelming. These perinatal mental health centres will provide free support to families who need it most,” said Minister Butler.
The Australian Government has invested more than $26 million in the establishment of perinatal mental health centres across the country. Together, these centres are expected to assist more than 2,800 parents annually, providing a vital lifeline to families during a critical period of transition.
The Wanneroo facility will be operated by Gidget Foundation Australia, a not-for-profit organisation dedicated to supporting the emotional wellbeing of expecting and new parents. The foundation will oversee the day-to-day operation of the centre, ensuring that families receive the care and support they need.
Tracey Roberts, Member for Pearce, emphasized the significance of the new centre for the local community. “Families make up more than half of the Wanneroo community, and the Albanese Government is committed to supporting their health and wellbeing,” said Roberts. “We want to ensure that every parent and child can build the happy and healthy life they deserve.”
The establishment of the Wanneroo centre follows a broader national effort to provide accessible mental health services to families across Australia, offering critical support during a vulnerable and transformative time.
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