Canberra — The Albanese government has announced a bold new initiative aimed at bolstering mental health support for expecting and new parents, pledging $16.7 million to establish eight new perinatal mental health centres across the country. This commitment, set to be fulfilled if Labor is re-elected, underscores the government’s ongoing dedication to supporting families during one of the most vulnerable stages of life.
These new centres will be operated by Gidget Foundation Australia, a respected non-profit organisation specialising in perinatal mental health. The expanded services are expected to significantly increase access to free, specialised care for parents navigating the mental health challenges often associated with pregnancy and early parenthood.
Addressing a Critical Need
Health Minister Mark Butler emphasized the urgency and necessity of this funding, highlighting how common yet complex perinatal mental health issues can be.
“It’s common to be overwhelmed and tired during pregnancy and as a new parent, but many Australians are faced with far greater challenges,” Butler stated. “These Perinatal Mental Health Centres will provide families needing that extra support for free.”
According to national data, more than 100,000 Australian parents are impacted by perinatal depression and anxiety each year, making this initiative a vital public health investment. These mental health conditions, if left unaddressed, can affect not only the parent’s well-being but also the developmental health of the child.
How the Centres Work
The new centres, to be added to the existing Gidget House network, will offer free mental health care to individuals who have a GP referral and mental health care plan. These facilities will provide access to specialist clinicians trained in assessing and treating perinatal mood and anxiety disorders.
Arabella Gibson, CEO of Gidget Foundation Australia, said the new centres would be strategically located in regions with the highest demand.
“The additional eight Gidget House locations will be determined based on areas of need, and we know that by increasing accessibility throughout Australian states and territories, more parents will receive timely intervention which we know is important for recovery,” Gibson explained.
Since its founding, the Gidget Foundation has delivered nearly 100,000 appointments to over 10,000 families, proving its efficacy in providing compassionate and professional care for those navigating the emotional complexities of parenthood.
A Strong Return on Investment
Beyond the emotional benefits, Gibson pointed out the economic efficiency of the investment:
“Every dollar invested in perinatal mental health with the Gidget Foundation reduces the burden and cost of perinatal depression and anxiety to Australia with a threefold return.”
This makes the investment not only socially responsible but fiscally sound, reducing the long-term costs associated with untreated mental health conditions.
Broader Mental Health Commitments
The announcement follows a $26.2 million investment during Labor’s first term for 12 perinatal mental health services and comes just a week after a broader $1 billion mental health election promise, which focuses on free youth mental health services.
In contrast, Opposition Leader Peter Dutton recently pledged $400 million toward youth mental health services, with a commitment to reinstate 20 Medicare-funded psychology sessions, doubling the current limit of 10.
This escalating focus on mental health by both major parties indicates a growing recognition of mental health as a national priority in the lead-up to the election.
Conclusion
Labor’s $16.7 million commitment to expanding perinatal mental health services marks a proactive step toward addressing a growing public health challenge. With new parents increasingly vulnerable to anxiety, depression, and isolation, the establishment of more free, accessible, and specialist care centres could provide lifesaving support — both emotionally and economically — to thousands of Australian families.
The pledge reinforces the importance of early mental health intervention, positioning Australia as a leader in integrating compassionate care into essential stages of family life.
