Construction of a new $11.9 million Youth Prevention and Recovery Care centre in Melbourne’s north west is underway, bringing community-based treatment one step closer for young people with mental illness.
Minister for Mental Health James Merlino and Member for Northern Metropolitan Region Sheena Watt today turned the first sod on the 20-bed YPARC centre in Parkville, which once complete, will provide care for 200 young people each year.

Designed to increase access to safe, flexible and responsive short and medium-term mental health services, the new YPARC centre will help fill the transitional gap between community and hospital-based care.
With recovery-focused treatment and around-the clock clinical care, the state-of-the-art facility will provide support for young people aged 16-25.

The facility is designed to create a welcoming and home-like environment with private bedrooms complete with ensuite bathrooms. A communal kitchen, dining and living areas, breakout spaces and an outdoor garden will provide ample space for leisure, recreational activities and family visits.

The YPARC centre will be located alongside Orygen and in close proximity to The Royal Melbourne Hospital, ensuring young people have easy access other support services if needed.

Designed and delivered by the Victorian Health and Human Services Building Authority (VHHSBA), the new facility is one of 25 Prevention and Recovery Care centres (PARCs) across Melbourne and regional Victoria, providing treatment and support for people who are unwell or recovering from mental illness.

The program is part of the Victorian Government’s $325.7 million commitment to mental health outlined in the 10-year Mental Health Plan. Building Engineering has been appointed to build the new YPARC centre, which is expected to be completed in 2021.

Quotes attributable to the Minister for Mental Health James Merlino

“Young Victorians deserve to be given the very best chance to reach their full potential. This new YPARC centre in Parkville means young people in Melbourne’s inner north and west experiencing mental illness can access the care they need close to their existing support networks and community.”
“We are committed to implementing every recommendation from the Royal Commission into Victoria’s Mental Health System and delivering lifesaving reforms for Victorians.”

Quote attributable to the Member for Northern Metropolitan Sheena Watt

“This new facility will offer a unique opportunity for recovery focused treatment, closer to their home, friends and family – and our important mental health workforce will have a more modern place to provide care.”