Enhancing mental health and wellbeing support for rural Tasmanians

Regional mental health support has been strengthened following a $1.6 million investment from the Tasmanian Government.

The Tasmanian Government has partnered with specialist rural mental health organisation Rural Alive and Well to ensure rural and remote communities have access to mental health services tailored to their needs.

An important commitment as part of our 2030 Strong Plan for Tasmania’s Future, the Government has provided the funding over two years to help RAW enhance its presence in the rural community through its Community Engagement and Support Service.

Minister for Mental Health and Wellbeing, Roger Jaensch, said the Government was proud to partner with RAW.

“Since 2021 alone, we have provided RAW with almost $7 million to deliver critical programs. Since 2021 alone, we have provided RAW with almost $7 million to deliver critical programs.” Minister Jaensch said.

“We are committed to making sure every Tasmanian has access to the right mental health supports for their needs, wherever they live.

“We recognise the vital role RAW plays in providing mental health and suicide prevention services attuned to the needs and experiences of rural and regional communities, which is why we are funding them to boost their important services.

“Funding for RAW’s Community Engagement and Support Service will enable the organisation to further grow its presence and enhance its work in building mental health resilience and minimising the risk of suicide.

“This will include delivering programs that build trust and break down barriers.”

This program aligns closely with our work to build an integrated mental health and suicide prevention system, including through the Tasmanian Suicide Prevention Strategy, the Tasmanian Mental Health Reform Program and Rethink 2020.

RAW CEO Lee Whiteley said this funding is critical to our delivery model and will allow us to continue our awareness and support work in rural and remote Tasmania.

“It aligns perfectly with our outreach work and allows us to be visible in community while breaking down the barriers that often prevent people from reaching out,” Mr Whiteley said.

“Most importantly this means we can continue to turn up when it counts, ensuring great people in our amazing places have access to support them through difficult times.

“We thank the government for their ongoing funding, and we look forward to working with them, as we do our part to deliver on the Tasmanian Suicide Prevention Strategy.”

If you require support from RAW, phone 1800 RAW TAS or visit Welcome to RAW.