Expanded mental health facilities in Mirrabooka planned

7/5/99
Expanding mental health facilities in Mirrabooka are among State Budget plans unveiled today by the State Government.
Outlining the Budget, Health Minister John Day said $100,000 would be used to increase and develop the level of adult mental health services in Mirrabooka.
"The additional space for adult mental health facilities in Mirrabooka is part of a $10 million commitment by the State Government to improving mental health services throughout the State," Mr Day said.
"The funds will go towards fitting-out and furnishing additional leased building space to better accommodate the need for mental health services in Mirrabooka and surrounding areas.
"It means more people will receive the care and support they need without having to travel too far away from their homes for treatment."
Mr Day said the 1999-2000 health budget of $1.794 billion - the single biggest allocation for any Government-funded service - represented a $153 million increase (9.3 per cent) over the estimate announced in last year's Budget.
"Since 1996-97 there has been a $350 million boost - nearly a 25 per cent increase - to the health budget which highlights just how committed this Government is to the health needs of all Western Australians," he said.
Mr Day said expanding the clinic was part of a State Government strategy to ensure all Western Australians receive quality health care regardless of where they live.
"The overall aim is to provide health care that is close to home, and in line with the specific needs of communities throughout the State," he said.
Media contact: Mark Thompson on 9213 6600