EMMA MCBRIDE MP
ASSISTANT MINISTER FOR MENTAL HEALTH AND SUICIDE PREVENTION
ASSISTANT MINISTER FOR RURAL AND REGIONAL HEALTH
FEDERAL MEMBER FOR DOBELL

DAN REPACHOLI MP
FEDERAL MEMBER FOR HUNTER

MEDIA RELEASE

MENTAL HEALTH SUPPORT FOR FLOOD-AFFECTED REGIONS

The Assistant Minister for Mental Health and Suicide Prevention, the Hon. Emma McBride MP will visit flood-affected parts of the Hunter today to hear from locals about the impact this event has had on their mental health.

The Assistant Minister will join Member for Hunter, Dan Repacholi MP at the Broke Recovery Centre where they will meet with local SES crews and hear from residents.

While the floods have affected people’s livelihoods and homes, the Albanese Government knows they will also have a significant impact on people’s mental health.

“Severe weather events like floods are traumatic and have a significant impact on the mental health and wellbeing of people, families, and the wider community,” Assistant Minister McBride said.

“Right now, the focus is on keeping people safe, but in the coming weeks we can expect a surge in demand for mental health support.

“That’s why I will join Dan Repacholi in the town of Broke to listen to locals and help them connect with support services.”

Member for Hunter, Dan Repacholi MP says communities in his electorate have been significantly impacted by the floods.

“Homes and businesses have been flooded, dozens of local roads have closed, and many people have been cut off by flood waters,” he said.

“This is going to have a huge impact on people financially and will take a toll on their mental health too.

“I’m pleased to have the Assistant Minister in Broke today to hear from our community so we can make sure they have the support they need in the weeks and months ahead.”

People impacted by the floods can access a range of national, regional, and local mental health support  services through their Primary Health Networks (PHNs) which are funded by the Australian Government.

The Head to Health digital platform provides information, advice, and links to free and low-cost phone, online and face-to-face mental health services.

The Head to Health phone service is also available to all Australians on 1800 595 212 so they can be assessed and connected to mental health services in their region that best meet their individual needs.

If immediate 24/7 help is required, people impacted by the floods should contact:
• Lifeline on 13 11 14
• Beyond Blue on 1300 22 4636
• MensLine on 1300 78 99 78
• Kids Helpline on 1800 551 800 (children under 12 years)