YOUNG people will be able to access more affordable psychology sessions under the ACT Greens’ $11.6 million child and youth mental health package, if elected in October.

The party’s mental health package includes a $2 million psychologist subsidy scheme for young people and people on low incomes to access mental health care plan sessions. The $2 million subsidy scheme equates to around 13,000 sessions each year, the party says. 

As part of the package, $1.9 million will be available for parents, carers and families to access support programs including free seminars and parent peer support groups.

An extra 10 additional child and adolescent mental health clinicians will be employed, according to the party, saying there’ll be more community counselling programs, mentoring and home visits, a mental health promotion and prevention program in primary schools and more funding for community sector mental health services. 

ACT Greens spokesperson for mental health Shane Rattenbury says COVID-19 has been a difficult time for young people.

“Our commitment today will support more children, young people and their families, sooner – so that they feel safe, secure, empowered and optimistic about their future,” he says.