The Youth Hospital in the Home program is designed to reduce the strain on the hospital system. Photo: Tasmanian Department of Health.
The Tasmanian Government is hoping to reduce strain on the hospital system by giving young people greater access to in-home specialist mental health care.
The expanded service will provide support for younger people experiencing acute mental health needs, by providing short-term treatment in their own homes as an alternative to care in a hospital.
Some $20 million has been allocated in the 2026-27 State Budget to strengthen the Youth Hospital in the Home program’s ability to improve mental health.
Tasmanian Premier Jeremy Rockliff said the program had been delivered in the state’s north-west, reducing emergency department presentations and health-related admissions.
“This expansion to the north means more young people in northern Tasmania will be able to access high‑quality mental health care closer to home,” Mr Rockliff said.
“Hospital in the Home is an important part of our broader mental health system, providing appropriate care while helping young people stay connected to their families and community.”
Multidisciplinary mental health teams will work alongside families, schools, community services and carers to support young people in their recovery.
Minister for Health, Mental Health and Wellbeing Bridget Archer said: “Youth Mental Health Hospital in the Home provides intensive treatment in a familiar environment, which can support recovery and reduce the need for inpatient admission.
“We’ve seen the value of this work in the north-west, and expanding this service to the north will strengthen access to care and support for more young Tasmanians at a critical time in their lives.
“In this Budget, we are making the savings needed while continuing to deliver the services and build the infrastructure Tasmania must have now, and for the future.”
