2025 saw at least 107,500 visits by people and families accessing free Medicare Mental Health Centres across NSW.

Given the events of 2022 are engraved in Lismore residents' minds forever, it was no surprise to read that the Lismore Medicare Mental Health Centre, located at P-Block at Southern Cross University, was the busiest centre in the state with 18,318 occasions last year.

Next on the busiest centre list was the Western Sydney locations in Liverpool and Penrith, which saw 14,533 and 11,799 occasions of care, respectively.

The Albanese and Minns Governments announced these numbers as they launched another centre in Blacktown, Sydney's West.

The centres take pressure off families by saving time and money, while putting mental health support close by, particularly important in flood-stricken areas, such as Lismore.

Staffed by multidisciplinary care teams, including mental health clinicians and peer workers, care is tailored to the needs of each person who visits the centres.

The Commonwealth and State Governments have partnered together to build a network of 33 Medicare Mental Health Centres in New South Wales, with 18 currently open and supporting people and communities across the State. 

People seeking information or support can be connected with Medicare Mental Health by calling 1800 595 212 or visiting www.medicarementalhealth.gov.au.

NSW Premier Chris Minns said, “We know more young people need mental health support, and cutting costs and removing barriers is key to making sure they can get the help they need.

“Providing access to free mental health support is a simple way to improve the lives of young people, families and our most vulnerable.

Assistant Minister McBride said, “The Albanese Government is putting mental health at the heart of Medicare and quality care in the centre of communities.

“This new Medicare Mental Health Centre offers people living in Blacktown a safe and welcoming place to access mental health support and care close to home.

“Anyone may be impacted by mental challenges, and this new centre offers everyone access to free support, without the need for an appointment or referral.”

Minister Jackson said, “These Medicare Mental Health Centres are a game-changer. Anyone is welcome to walk in, no appointment, referral, or credit card needed.

“Getting help for your mental health should be easy and free – that’s what our Medicare Mental Health Centres are all about.

“Thousands of people are already accessing centres all across New South Wales, particularly in Western Sydney and regional hubs like Lismore and Wagga Wagga.

“Medicare is something Australians rightly take pride in, and these centres strengthen that legacy - public, universal care that puts people first.”