Stride Mental Health was chosen as the new lead provider by Northern Queensland Primary Health Network  (NQPHN) following a robust select tendering process to ensure that young people in the Townsville region have timely access to high-quality mental health services. 

Regions Manager at Stride Ash Simpson said Stride’s appointment would facilitate greater access to mental health support without impacting current services. 

“Stride is a highly experienced provider of headspace services, currently operating over ten headspace centres nationally. We have years of experience transitioning existing services to ensure continuity of care for young people.  

“Our commencement at headspace Townsville will not impact existing services but will ensure that the young people of Townsville are connected to a range of integrated mental health supports so they can receive appropriate care, where and when they need it,” said Mr. Simpson.

Funded by the Australian Government through the Primary Health Network (PHN) program,

headspace Townsville provides free, confidential health services to young people aged 12-25 with key focus areas of mental health, alcohol and other drugs, education and employment support, and physical and sexual health.

Mental illness is a significant health issue in the North Queensland region, including Townsville. Almost half (45 per cent) of the population aged 16–85 years will experience a mental illness at some time in their life. About 1 in 5 people will experience a mental illness in any 12-month period.

NQPHN Chief Executive Officer, Robin Whyte said improving access to mental health services was a priority for NQPHN.

“One of NQPHN’s objectives is to commission high-quality mental health services to improve the wellbeing of North Queenslanders,” said Ms Whyte.

“Stride was selected as the lead provider following a robust select tendering process to ensure timely access to safe and high-quality mental health services for young people in Townsville.”

Ms Whyte said headspace Townsville was available for referrals and had reduced waiting times with funds provided in the past two years.

To access headspace Townsville services, visit the centre at 2/14 Sporting Drive in Thuringowa Central, or contact (07) 4799 1799.