The Australian Government is expanding the Head to Health network of services to increase access to community mental health care that addresses a broad range of social, physical and emotional needs. An overarching principle of Head to Health services is to ensure cultural safety, in line with Gayaa Dhuwi (Proud Spirit) Declaration and Priority Reform 3.
Additionally, appropriate clinical governance, and safety and quality frameworks, informed by co-design and cultural safety considerations, are required to implement services. Head to Health adult sites provide a safe and welcoming place for adults to access mental health information, services and supports delivered by multidisciplinary care teams over extended hours, without needing a prior appointment or paying a fee.
The Head to Health Phone Service operates nationally alongside physical Head to Health sites, offering a suite of entry points to access mental health advice, assessment and treatment. Anyone across Australia can call Head to Health on 1800 595 212 and speak with a mental health professional who will take the time to understand their individual circumstances and connect them to the best local mental health service to meet their clinical and cultural needs.