The NSW Government today announced it will boost the number of specialist mental health bushfire recovery clinicians recruited since the crisis by nine, taking the total to 30 across the state.
Deputy Premier and Minister for Bushfire Recovery John Barilaro said as our immediate response efforts now transition to the next stage of recovery, the ongoing effects of the bushfire crisis will also change the way people require mental health assistance.
“The bushfire clean-up and recovery is well underway across the state, but this is an emotional and trying journey for many,” Mr Barilaro said.
“As our immediate response efforts now transition to the next phase of recovery, the ongoing effects of the bushfire crisis will require mental health support now and for a long time into the future.”
Mental Health Minister Bronnie Taylor said the positions will be spread across all bushfire affected local health districts, as communities work towards stability.
“Nine new fulltime specialist mental health clinicians will now join the 21 currently being recruited to bushfire affected communities to make sure we are continuing to address those specific needs, now and into the future,” she said.
“We will not stop, as our attention now turns to targeting people and groups at risk, and those who need specialist care,” she said.
The total NSW Government investment for bushfire mental health stands at $15.3 million to support hard hit communities across the state.
People suffering from trauma or stress as a result of the State’s bushfire crisis should contact their local health service via the NSW Mental Health Line on 1 800 011 511
The Disaster Welfare Assistance Line is staffed with counseling support and can be accessed by phone on 1800 018 444