Kiama is a step closer to getting its own dedicated headspace to provide youth with mental health and early prevention services in the Kiama LGA.

The Federal Labor Government has made good on its pre-election promise to create a headspace centre in Kiama, with Member for Kiama Fiona Phillips today announcing that the lease has been signed for a headspace centre at 11/65 Manning Street. The Kiama headspace will offer a satellite service, with the new headspace Shellharbour being the parent site for headspace Kiama.

The new headspace is expected to open in early 2024, with site plans for works to be finalised in the coming months in collaboration with stakeholders young and old.

Grand Pacific Health has been appointed as the lead agency to deliver headspace services in Kiama. Grand Pacific Health already operates the closest existing headspace centres in Wollongong and Nowra, as well as centres in Goulburn, Yass and Bega.

CEO of Grand Pacific Health Adam Phillips said the number of referrals to headspace have been growing steadily in recent years.

“The feedback we are getting is that headspace is being identified as a safe place to go to get effective care and we’re looking forward to expanding this work in Kiama and Shellharbour," he said.

"We have already appointed a Centre Manager for Shellharbour and Kiama and they are working towards employing the staff team and working with our community partners and young people to ensure that the services are the right fit for the region.”

Fiona Phillips said that young people in Kiama have had a tough few years, and they need adequate support services closer to home. Currently, the closest headspaces are located in Nowra and Wollongong.

“I’ve seen what a difference headspace can make to the lives of local young people, delivering the centre I promised in the Batemans Bay area in 2020 and seeing the amazing work of headspace Nowra over many years,” she said.

“I am proud to now be delivering this critically important mental health service for young people in Kiama.”

She added that natural disasters like bushfires, floods and the pandemic have impacted young people disproportionately compared to older people.

“In addition to this our youth face pressure from things like HSC and finding employment for the first time. These pressures have been felt acutely in the Kiama region and I am going to do everything I can to ensure our youth get the support they deserve,” Mrs Phillips said.

Assistant Minister for Mental Health and Suicide Prevention Emma McBride added: “The mental health of young people has been declining over recent years. Intervention as early as possible can make all the difference for young people who are struggling.

“Making sure support is available close to home is essential. I look forward to seeing this headspace service up and running next year.”