Construction starts on Secure Mental Health Rehab Unit
5 April 2023
Work has begun on the Gold Coast’s first secure mental health facility which promises to deliver recovery-focussed, compassionate, and person-centred mental heath care.
The Unit will meet the growing demand for mental health rehabilitation services across South-East Queensland.
The 40-bed Secure Mental Health Rehabilitation Unit (SMHRU) will be shared between consumers of Metro South and Gold Coast Hospital and Health Services and will provide a contemporary and safe environment for consumers during their recovery journey.
The SMHRU is one of many health projects the Palaszczuk Government has committed to on the Gold Coast thanks to the $1.944 billion health investment announced in the most recent budget.
Acting Executive Director MSAMHS Linda Hipper welcomed the addition of new mental health beds and said they would provide additional access to a safe and structured environment for vulnerable consumers.
"The SMHRU will also provide 24-hour clinical support for people over the age of 18 years with persistent and disabling symptoms of mental illness who are unable to be managed within the community and no longer require treatment in our acute mental health units," she said.
Ms Hipper also said the SMHRU would mean additional access for consumers to be able to receive the right care, at the right time, within the right setting.
Minister for Health and Ambulance Services Yvette D’Ath said it was vital for people with complex mental health needs to have access to a safe environment to receive 24-hour clinical support during their recovery.
“The team at Gold Coast Health worked in partnership with consumers who have lived experience of receiving mental health care, as well as carers and staff to design a world-class, compassionate, person-centred mental health facility that fosters the recovery of consumers, families and carers.”
“Not only will people be treated for their condition here, more importantly they will be supported in their recovery and rehabilitation until they can transition back into the community.”
