News

More mental health support for bushfire-impacted communities

By Bree Harding

May 4, 2026

The Shepparton Mental Health and Wellbeing Local will temporarily expand its service area from Greater Shepparton, Strathbogie and Moira, to also take in Mitchell and Murrindindi shires. Photo by Bree Harding

People in bushfire-impacted communities will soon have access to more mental health care, closer to where they live in ways convenient to them.

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Three Mental Health and Wellbeing Locals, including Shepparton’s, which currently services Greater Shepparton, and Strathbogie and Moira shires, will temporarily expand their service areas.

The Shepparton branch will soon service Mitchell and Murrindindi shires as well, with the Victorian Government announcing a $4.9 million investment, funded by the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements as part of the $370 million support package announced by the federal and Victorian governments in January.

“Experience has taught us bushfires can affect people’s mental health long after they’re over, which is why we’re committed to supporting these communities,” Victorian Natural Disaster Recovery Minister Vicki Ward said.

The Locals are currently securing locations in bushfire-affected communities, so that in-person support can be delivered directly in the areas.

Locals provide free support and treatment for adults experiencing mental illness or psychological distress, without the need for a Medicare card or a GP referral.

More mental health support workers and clinicians, including psychologists, will be deployed at Locals in Shepparton, Benalla, Wangaratta, Mansfield (expanding services to the Towong Shire), and Greater Geelong and Queenscliffe (expanding services to the Colac Otway Shire).

“I visited impacted communities in Victoria earlier this year and saw first-hand the devastation for communities,” Federal Emergency Management Minister Kristy McBain said.

“The mental health impacts from these sorts of events don’t go away overnight and I’m pleased to see mental health services being delivered where they are needed most.”

Communities can access support now by calling the statewide Locals intake service, Partners in Wellbeing, on 1300 375 330.

Support will then be expanded to face-to-face appointments or by visiting staff in the community.

“Whether it’s in person or over the phone — dedicated mental health staff will be embedded into these communities and supporting residents to recover,” Victorian Mental Health Minister Ingrid Stitt said.

Services will operate from 9am to 5pm Monday to Friday, with face-to-face appointments available at least three days a week.

The expanded services will operate until June 30, 2027.