The numbers of specialist mental health clinicians are to be boosted in bushfire-affected areas from 21 to 30 as communities begin to recover from the devastating blazes.
Deputy Premier and Minister for Bushfire Recovery, John Barilaro said that as immediate response efforts transition to the next stage of recovery, the ongoing effects of the bushfire crisis would also change the way people required 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.
Minister for Mental Health, Bronnie Taylor said the new positions would be spread across bushfire-affected local health districts.
“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,” Ms Taylor 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.
Ms Taylor said 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 1800 011 511.
She said the Disaster Welfare Assistance Line was also staffed with counselling support and could be accessed by phone on 1800 018 444.
