The Sunshine Coast Medicare Mental Health Centre has officially opened the doors to its new, purpose-designed location, giving locals a more welcoming and permanent place to get free mental health support.
The new centre is in Wishlist House, 1 Bright Street Birtinya, opposite the Sunshine Coast University Hospital.
The Centre is delivered by Wellways, in partnership with Clarity Health Care, and offers care from a multidisciplinary team including peer workers, psychologists, social workers, nurses and psychiatrists. Anyone aged 18 and over can simply walk in; no appointment, referral or Medicare card needed.
Operating since July 2024, the Centre has already supported more than 3160 occasions of service.
The fitout of the site was shaped through a local codesign process to ensure it felt warm, safe and welcoming from the moment people walked through the door. The space features calming colours, low-sensory lighting and comfortable consultation rooms that reflect the service’s person-centred model of care.
The Centre was officially opened on Thursday 29 May by Assistant Minister for Mental Health and Suicide Prevention and Rural and Regional Health Minister, Emma McBride.
Ms McBride said,“The new Sunshine Coast Medicare Mental Health Centre offers people a safe and welcoming place to access mental health support and care close to home.“
“Anyone may be impacted by mental ill-health, and this new centre offers everyone access to free support, without the need for an appointment or referral.”
According to the 2021 Census, 32,217 people in the Sunshine Coast Local Government Area reported living with a mental health condition such as anxiety or depression — around one in nine residents.
That figure is likely to be even higher today.
Country to Coast Queensland CEO Julie Sturgess said, “You don’t need a diagnosis to get help. You don’t have to wait for a GP referral. Whether you’re in distress, overwhelmed, or just need someone to talk to, this service is here for you.”
Davis Lemke, CEO at Clarity Health Care, said the Centre ensures people can access the right mix of support, in one place.
“With our team of psychologists, social workers, psychiatrists and nurses working hand in hand with Wellways peer workers, we’re delivering integrated, team-based care from one central hub — making it easier for people to get the right support, right when they need it,” Lemke said.
“The service is also designed to link in with other local services and help people navigate what’s next.”
The Sunshine Coast Medicare Mental Health Centre is open Monday to Friday, 10am to 5pm. Locals can drop in or call 1800 595 212 for free, confidential support.
A community open day is also planned at the Centre in the coming months, giving residents the opportunity to meet the team and explore the new space.
“These Centres are designed for people in distress who need more than early intervention. We’re proud that the Sunshine Coast now has a permanent base as part of this vital national network,” Ms Sturgess said.
