The Andrews Labor Government is providing $11.2 million to support new mothers and families experiencing mental illness to get well and stay well.

As part of the Victorian Budget 2016/17, the Labor Government will provide an additional $1.6 million for prevention and early intervention for new mothers, filling the gaps left by the Turnbull Government last year when it savagely cut its contribution to the National Perinatal Depression Initiative.

Minister for Mental Health Martin Foley announced the funding today during a visit to The Bouverie Centre, an institute that combines clinical family therapy, academic teaching, workforce development and research in one integrated service.

The Budget also provided $9.6 million over four years to expand the Families where a parent has a mental illness program, which works to reduce the impacts of mental illness on family members – particularly dependent children.

The Government has expanded this program due to the Turnbull Government’s recent announcement that they would no longer fund the Children of a Parent with a Mental Illness program.

It is estimated that almost a quarter of Victorian children have at least one parent with a mental illness.

These investments form part of a $356 million investment in mental health to deliver Victoria’s 10-year mental health plan and drive better mental health outcomes for Victorians.

The 10-year plan has a focus on prevention and early intervention, and supporting families and children to get well, and stay well.

Quotes attributable to Minister for Mental Health Martin Foley

“We won’t leave vulnerable mothers and children to suffer without the treatment and support they need.”

“We have stepped in as the Turnbull Government has cut and run from Victorian mothers and families who need support.”

“Tomorrow night’s budget is the time for Malcolm Turnbull to put an end to these harsh cuts, return funding that rightfully puts the mental health and safety of Victorian families first.”