MINISTER FOR AGRICULTURE, DROUGHT AND EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT – MEDIA RELEASE – MORE SUPPORT FOR MENTAL HEALTH, DOMESTIC VIOLENCE

The Hon. David Littleproud MP
Minister for Agriculture, Drought and
Emergency Management
Deputy Leader of the Nationals

Sunday 29th March 2020

More Support for Mental Health, Domestic Violence

Agriculture, Drought and Emergency Management Minister David Littleproud says the Federal Government’s stimulus package would further support people in the outback and remote communities.

$1.1 billion in more support measures will boost mental health services, increase domestic violence support, provide Medicare assistance for people at home and emergency food relief.

“People in country communities and remote parts of Australia who are anxious and fearful need to know that the Federal Government is there to support them,” Minister Littleproud said.

“No Australian, no matter where they live, needs to go through this alone.
“Those in regional and rural Australia have had it rough recently, with drought, bushfires and now the COVID-19 crisis. We will continue to be there for them.

“This support, which follows packages to cushion the economic and health impact from coronavirus, will be available immediately.
“The package includes a whole of population telehealth, which is important for people to connect with their medical professionals and counsellors, and doubles the bulk billing incentive to make sure GPs are available.

“There will also be more services for people experience family, domestic or sexual violence, and extra funding for mental health services.
“Emergency relief services have been heavily relied upon. This demand is expected to increase.

“As a result, there is $200 million to support people who are struggling to pay their bills, need their food delivered or have clothing available.
“I encourage people to take advantage of these measures to help them get through.”