The Minns Labor Government has delivered an important major funding boost for mental health services in NSW.

Lifeline will receive an $8.2 million investment over the next five years to facilitate the expansion of text and webchat support services to NSW residents.

Lifeline provides people in crisis with help from trained volunteers who listen, provide immediate support, assist to clarify options and choices as well as information about local services.

In 2022, Lifeline received over 360,000 calls from NSW residents, while demand for Lifeline’s text and webchat support services increased by 52% between December 2021 and December 2022. 

I understand that cost of living pressures is making this crisis worse and increasing demand for mental health services.

The investment by my Government will ensure Lifeline can deliver more support to people in distress while giving the organisation certainty and additional resources to continue its vital work in the community. 

It will ensure people across NSW have access to enhanced support 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

It will also mean that support is available to groups who might otherwise not reach out for help, particularly young people and women in domestic violence situations who are often more comfortable using text services.

Suicide has a devastating impact on families, friend, communities and workplaces. 

Knowing where to go to find support in a crisis can be lifesaving. The additional funding will help Lifeline continue to support even more people with high quality care.

As your Premier, ensuring the people of our state have access to mental health support and emotional wellbeing programs is a key priority for my Government. 

Now more than ever people need access to lifesaving mental health support and we are committed to ensuring people have that support.

Anyone experiencing a crisis can call Lifeline on 13 11 14 for support and advice or contract the NSW Mental Health Line on 1800 011 511 to connect with specialist mental health services.

Yours sincerely,

The Hon. Chris Minns MP
Premier of New South Wales
Member for Kogarah