What’s happening?
Twelve months have passed since the opening of the Redlands Medicare Mental Health Centre in Cleveland.
Federal Member for Bowman, Henry Pike, marked the anniversary by reflecting on the Centre’s role as a frontline mental health service for the local community.
“Twelve months ago, a door opened quietly on Middle Street in Cleveland,” Mr Pike said.
“To many it may have looked like just another retail tenancy, but for thousands of people in our community, it has become a trusted place for those in need. A place to be seen, heard and helped without delay.”
The Centre was first announced by Mr Pike following a $3.4 million investment from the former Liberal and National Federal Government.
The goal was to deliver a walk-in adult mental health service for the Redlands.
“The idea was simple: a free, walk-in mental health service with no Medicare card, no GP referral and no appointment required right here in the Redlands,” Mr Pike said.
Mr Pike said the project faced uncertainty after the change of government.
“After the change of government, this commitment was at real risk of being quietly forgotten. I refused to let that happen,” he said.
“I continued to make the case that our community needed this service, that the demand justified it, and that the Redlands deserved it.”
Why it matters
The Centre provides early mental health support without barriers such as referrals or appointments.
This allows people to seek help sooner, rather than waiting until issues escalate.
Mr Pike said timely access can prevent people from reaching crisis point.
Local impact
Since opening, the Centre has supported thousands of locals seeking help.
Mr Pike said the service is also easing pressure on hospitals, police, and ambulance services.
“Behind every one of those contacts is a local person who might otherwise have struggled alone, ended up in an emergency department in the middle of the night, or reached breaking point before anyone noticed,” he said.
By the numbers
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Since opening, the Centre has delivered 3,146 total service contacts, supporting people through short and medium-term wellbeing care.
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Those contacts include service navigation, helping people with more complex needs connect with ongoing support.
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The Centre was established through a $3.4 million federal investment to deliver a free, walk-in mental health service.
“These numbers represent help delivered at the right time when it can make the biggest difference,” Mr Pike said.
Zoom in
The Redlands Medicare Mental Health Centre offers adult mental health support without requiring a Medicare card, GP referral, or appointment.
It focuses on immediate access for people seeking help.
Zoom out
Community-based mental health centres play a role in reducing demand on emergency services.
Early support can improve outcomes for individuals and the wider health system.
What to look for next?
Mr Pike encouraged residents to use the service and share information with others who may need support.
“If you or someone you know is struggling, please know that help is available, right here in the heart of our community,” he said.
Centre details
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Location: 40 Middle Street, Cleveland
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Opening hours: Monday to Friday, 10:00 am to 6:00 pm
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Phone: 1800 573 955
