Expecting and new parents in Western Australia will soon have access to free, tailored mental health services with the establishment of a new perinatal mental health centre in Wanneroo. This centre, set to open by 2026, will be the second in the state, following the recent launch of a similar facility in Harrisdale.
The Australian Government-funded initiative aims to provide crucial support to parents during the perinatal period, which spans from pregnancy to a child’s first birthday—a time when many parents experience mental health challenges. It is estimated that one in five women and one in 10 men struggle with anxiety or depression during this period.
Operating at no cost to families, the Wanneroo centre will offer psychological services to address the growing demand for mental health care. To access these services, parents will need a referral from their GP along with a mental health care plan.
By offering early intervention and support, the initiative seeks to reduce the long-term impact of perinatal mental health issues, fostering healthier, more stable futures for families.
The federal government has allocated over $26 million to create a nationwide network of centres that will collectively assist more than 2,800 parents each year. The centres will be run by Gidget Foundation Australia, a not-for-profit organisation dedicated to promoting emotional wellbeing for expecting and new parents.
Minister for Health and Aged Care Mark Butler emphasised the significance of this initiative, noting that while feeling overwhelmed is common for new parents, many face more severe mental health challenges. “These perinatal mental health centres will provide families with the extra support they need, free of charge,” he said.
Tracey Roberts, Member for Pearce, highlighted the importance of supporting local families, stating, “Families make up more than half of the Wanneroo community, and the Albanese Government is committed to supporting their health and wellbeing to help them build happy, healthy lives.”
The Wanneroo perinatal mental health centre is expected to be fully operational by 2026, further strengthening the mental health support network for WA families.
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