Exciting news for families in Perth, Western Australia: a new Head to Health Kids Hub is set to open, providing essential early intervention and mental health support for children under 12. This initiative aims to address mild to moderate developmental, mental health, behavioural, and emotional challenges young children and their families face.

The Kids Hub will offer free services without requiring a formal referral or diagnosis. Children will have access to a multidisciplinary team, which may include psychologists, paediatricians, nurses, social workers, and peer support workers, all dedicated to fostering a supportive environment.

This initiative is a collaborative effort between the Australian and Western Australian governments, highlighting their commitment to improving the mental health of children. Following a competitive tender process, Parkerville Children and Youth Care Service has been selected to operate the Hub, with services expected to begin in early 2025.

Over the next four years, the Albanese Labor Government aims to establish a national network of 17 Head to Health Kids Hubs as part of the National Children’s Mental Health and Wellbeing Strategy. These hubs are designed to fill gaps in the current health system by providing accessible, child-centred services at no cost to families.

Assistant Minister McBride emphasised the importance of this initiative, stating, “It’s clear children need more support with mental health and wellbeing, and families need more free services to help their children.”

He highlighted that the Kids Hub will offer a welcoming environment for families to discuss concerns and explore solutions.

Minister Sanderson echoed these sentiments, noting the significance of accessible mental health support for the future of WA’s children. “All levels of government must work together on initiatives to improve the mental health and wellbeing of children and young people,” she said.

The Head to Health Kids Hub represents a significant step forward in prioritising mental health support for children, ensuring they receive the care they need to thrive.