Youth Mental Health First Aid

In reply to Mr GARDNER (Morialta) (18 July 2014). (Estimates Committee A)

The Hon. J.J. SNELLING (Playford—Minister for Health, Minister for Mental Health and Substance Abuse, Minister for the Arts, Minister for Health Industries):

The Mental Health First Aid program developed in Australia is now provided in 23 countries worldwide includes specific courses for youth, adult and Aboriginal community members. It was adopted and implemented as a community-based initiative by CAMHS in 2004. The courses are provided across the metropolitan area by two accredited CAMHS workers as part of their normal duties. Courses are provided on request, to staff of independent and government schools, school chaplains, headspace workers, youth leaders, scout leaders and mentors and other relevant staff working with young people.

Over the last two years more than two hundred community based workers have been trained in youth mental health first aid by CAMHS across Adelaide. There is no intention at this point to discontinue the service.

There is no specific funding provided in the CAMHS budget for the Mental Health First Aid program and participants are charged a small fee to cover the cost of the Mental Health First Aid Manual. Further information about the program can be gained from the Mental Health First Aid website www.mhfa.com.au.