Bundaberg’s Medicare Mental Health Centre has officially opened the doors to its new, purpose-designed location, giving locals a more welcoming and permanent place to get free mental health support.
The Centre is delivered by Wellways in partnership with Clarity Health Care and offers care from a multidisciplinary team including peer workers, psychologists, social workers, nurses and psychiatrists.
Anyone aged 18 and over can simply walk in; no appointment, referral or Medicare card needed.
Operating since July 2024, the centre has already supported more than 500 occasions of service.
The new permanent location has been chosen to further improve service visibility and access for people who may not know where to turn.
The fitout of the site was shaped through a local codesign process to ensure it felt warm, safe and welcoming from the moment people walked through the door.
The space features calming colours, low-sensory lighting and comfortable consultation rooms that reflect the service’s person-centred model of care.
The centre was officially opened today by the Honourable Emma McBride MP, Assistant Minister for Mental Health and Suicide Prevention and Minister for Rural and Regional Health.
“Medicare Mental Health Centres offer people in regional communities, like Bundaberg a safe and welcoming place to access mental health support and care close to home,” Assistant Minister McBride said.
“Anyone may be impacted by mental ill-health, and this new centre offers everyone access to free support, without the need for an appointment or referral.”
Funded by Country to Coast Queensland (CCQ) through the Australian Government’s PHN Program, the Bundaberg Centre is part of a growing national network of Medicare Mental Health Centres that bridge the gap between general mental health care and crisis or hospital-level support.
“This new home represents more than just a new address. It’s about creating a space where people feel safe, respected and supported,” CEO of CCQ Julie Sturgess said.
“The investment in this Medicare Mental Health Centre reinforces the commitment of the Department of Health, Disability and Ageing to the health of the Bundaberg community and I thank them for their continued support.
“Bundaberg locals have embraced this service since it opened last year, and this permanent site ensures we can continue to offer walk-in, no-barrier support for people when they need it most.”
According to the 2021 Census, 11,475 people in the Bundaberg Local Government Area reported living with a mental health condition such as anxiety or depression – around 1 in 9 residents.
That figure is likely to be even higher today.
“You don’t need a diagnosis to get help,” Ms Sturgess said.
“You don’t have to wait for a GP referral.
“Whether you’re in distress, overwhelmed, or just need someone to talk to, this service is here for you.”
Wellways Director of Services Nikki Wynne said the team were excited to officially welcome community members to their new Medicare Mental Health Centre.
“We are looking forward to developing strong, trusted relationships across all regions to deliver personal and valued service experiences—guided by lived experience”, she said.
Ms Wynne also confirmed that the new Medicare Mental Health Centres were an essential part of Wellways’ commitment to building an integrated, interdependent network of services that enhances accessibility to holistic care, supporting mental health and wellbeing across all communities.
Davis Lemke, CEO at Clarity Health Care, said the centre ensured people could access the right mix of support, in one place.
‘With our team of psychologists, social workers, psychiatrists and nurses working hand in hand with Wellways peer workers, we’re delivering integrated, team-based care from one central hub—making it easier for people to get the right support, right when they need it,” he said.
“The service is also designed to link in with other local services and help people navigate what’s next.”
Centre details
Where: the Bundaberg Medicare Mental Health Centre is located at 14 Bourbong Street, Bundaberg Central.
When: the centre is open Monday to Friday, 10 am to 5 pm.
Locals can drop in or call 1800 595 212 for free, confidential support.
Bundaberg joins permanent Medicare Mental Health Centres already operating in Rockhampton, Gladstone and the Sunshine Coast, with more to come nationally as part of the Government’s ongoing investment in accessible free mental health care.
A community open day is also planned at the Centre later this year, giving residents the opportunity to meet the team and explore the new space.
Reference – 2021 Bundaberg Mental Health Statistics: abs.gov.au/census/find-census-data/quickstats/2021/LGA31820
