Labor has a strong and proud record in delivering long-term mental health reform – a record I look forward to seeing continue under a Shorten Labor Government.
As an electorate, Calwell has the highest intake of refugees from Iraq and Syria. These people come from war-torn countries who in their life have seen indescribable trauma. These new and emerging communities may not be aware of mental health care plans, due to language barriers and cultural differences or – in some instances - they aren’t entitled to it.
Thankfully, members of our community have rallied to their support such as headspace Craigieburn; Orygen Youth Research Centre that caters for young people aged 12 to 25, and the youth-led grass roots support organisation called Colouring Clouds Australia which aims to raise awareness of mental health services, and to encourage young people to talk to each other openly about their mental health without fear of judgement or stigma.
