Ross Vasta MP expands his mental health plan to Southside of Bonner

After positive developments from his community Bayside Mental Health Survey, Federal Member for Bonner Ross Vasta MP has today launched a Southside Mental Health Survey. This represents the first stage of Ross Vasta’s plan to increase funding and local services for residents on the Bonner Southside.

“After listening to residents, I have identified a need for greater access to mental health services on the Southside,” Mr Vasta said.

“I have been a strong advocate for mental health, and I am committed to providing a plan and delivering for mental health funding and services for residents on the Southside.”

To best understand what is happening on a local level, Mr Vasta is calling on Southside community members to take part in the quick survey; whose contribution will be invaluable in determining where more support must be delivered.

“Every community has different demographic and geographical needs, that is why it is important for residents on the Southside to take 30 seconds to fill out this survey.

“By filling out this anonymous survey, it will provide a better understanding on what services and resources are needed and where.

“As a part of this plan, I will also be holding the first roundtable discussions on the 23^rd of March where I have invited community groups, schools, GPs, mental health providers and more to develop solutions to bridge the gaps in the current system.

“ Everyone knows someone who has experienced or is struggling with mental health, and with suicide continuing to cause the greatest loss of life for young Australians, I remain committed to fighting for greater awareness, and more funding for mental health services.”

Mr Vasta has seen positive developments out of the roundtable Bayside, which has seen great community consultation and has led to practical steps in addressing the gaps in the mental health system in the area.

“I’m very happy to have delivered the first stages of my mental health plan for the Bayside.

“ I know we will be able to replicate and adapt this approach on the Southside but first, community feedback from the survey is needed.”

Supporting mental health is a key priority of the Morrison Government, who made a $2.3 billion commitment to the sector as part of the 2021-22 Federal Budget.

To take part in the Southside Mental Health Survey, please click: here

All survey responses will be kept anonymous and completely confidential.

Do not hesitate to reach out for mental health support. Anyone experiencing distress can seek immediate advice and support through headspace (https://headspace.org.au/eheadspace/),

Kids Helpline (1800 55 1800), Beyond Blue (1300 224 636), Lifeline (13 11 14), or the Government’s digital mental health gateway, Head to Health (www.headtohealth.gov.au).