A new mental health centre in Cairns will help people experiencing situational distress, difficult circumstances, and “wobbly life moments”. 

Northern Queensland Primary Health Network (NQPHN), in partnership with Cairns and Hinterland Hospital and Health Service (CHHHS), is pleased to announce Mind Australia (Mind) will establish the Cairns Medicare Mental Health Centre. 

While a location for the new centre is yet to be determined, full service delivery is anticipated to begin by June 2025. 

NQPHN CEO Ben Tooth said the announcement of Mind Australia as the service provider for the Medicare Mental Health Centre was positive news for the Cairns region. 

“We know mental health is one of the biggest health challenges in our community, with many people experiencing distress and crisis,” Mr Tooth said. 

“The centre will make a real difference, giving people a supportive place to turn to in times of distress and crisis. 

“We are pleased to work with Cairns and Hinterland Hospital and Health Service and Mind on this significant initiative.”  

NQPHN and CHHHS undertook an extensive co-design process with community members and the Lived Experience Advisory Group to ensure the centre would meet the needs of those it serves. 

It will provide an alternative service to the emergency department for people experiencing mental health distress. 

CHHHS Chief Executive Leena Singh said improving access to, and the delivery of, mental health services in the Far North was one of the most pressing priorities of the Health Service. 

“Expanding mental health services in our community can help reduce the burden on our hospitals and emergency services,” Ms Singh said.  

“This will allow individuals to have greater access to early intervention and ongoing support. 

“This not only benefits the individuals experiencing psychological distress but also for their loved ones and contributes to the overall wellbeing of our communities.” 

Mind Australia Chief Executive Officer Gill Callister said the organisation was proud to be chosen to deliver the new Medicare Mental Health Centre in Cairns.  

“We know that accessible community-based support like these centres can make all the difference in helping people address problems before they reach crisis point,” Ms Callister said. 

“Mind has a proven track record of delivering high-quality, free, centre-based mental health support throughout Australia.” 

Mind has operated in the Cairns and Hinterland region since 2015. 

Executive Director Queensland Operations Denise Cumming said: “We’re proud to be recognised as a trusted provider of psychosocial supports in Cairns, and we’re committed to helping people in Cairns improve their mental health, their wellbeing, and their lives.” 

The Cairns Medicare Mental Health Centre is jointly funded by the Australian and Queensland Governments. 

About Cairns Medicare Mental Health Centre   

The Cairns Medicare Mental Health Centre will offer immediate and compassionate support from mental health professionals in a welcoming environment.  

It will operate seven days a week for extended hours and people won’t need an appointment.  

Telehealth options and follow-up support will be available. The centre will connect people to ongoing support if needed, including alcohol and other drugs, housing, and social services.