The Morrison Government is investing $245,256 to help residents across Fisher access support for mental health and youth suicide prevention initiatives.
Federal Member for Fisher and Speaker of the House of Representatives, Andrew Wallace, said local organisation endED would receive the funding to hold their annual Nurture Festival across the next two years after the success of today’s inaugural event.
“Today’s Nurture Festival brought together charities and organisations to connect young people and families across the Sunshine Coast with the specific support they may need,” Mr Wallace said.
“After its success, I’m delighted to have secured this funding to ensure endED can continue providing tailored help and advice in a friendly and welcoming way.
“This wouldn’t have been possible without the dedication of so many local Sunshine Coast businesses and organisations who have banded together to raise awareness about mental health issues and about the help that is available to those in need,” he added.
Minister for Families and Social Services, Anne Ruston, said the funding would allow the Nurture Festival to continue its outreach to the local community.
“Building social connections can be easier said than done and the Morrison Government’s funding will help to alleviate social isolation and develop stronger community bonds,” Minister Ruston said.
“This investment prioritises the educational development of young people, empowering vulnerable youth and growing stronger ties to employment opportunities.”
Co-Founder of endED, Mark Forbes, thanked the Government for having the vision to back the Nurture Festival initiative.
“There is a growing concern in Australia for the mental health of our youth. COVID, isolation, disconnection and social media are all impacting our youth in ways we are still yet to understand,” Mr Forbes said.
“This federal funding package will allow us to confidently plan for the next two years with the intention of creating a template to assist a National Regional Nurture rollout.”
This announcement comes after the Liberal National Government provided over $17 million in mental health services funding to the Sunshine Coast, including a National PTSD Centre at the USC Thompson Institute, further funding for the Wandi Nerida eating disorder treatment facility, and to build a new headspace centre for young people in Caloundra.
These significant investments are only possible because of the Liberal National Government’s commitment to building a strong economy, and a stronger future for communities like the Sunshine Coast.
