Mitchell Shire Council will lead a coordinated discussion on the improvement and better management and leadership of mental health and disability support services within Mitchell Shire, following a successful motion presented by Cr Bill Chisholm.
Cr Chisholm’s motion recommended a comprehensive forum that brings together stakeholders, including those from the broader community who have an interest in mental health and disability support, to discuss issues, share insights, and develop actionable solutions to provide for possible better outcomes.
“It is a real concern that the current situation in the Shire, particularly following Nexus’s recent announcement of the withdrawal of mental health services due to funding issues,” he said.
Cr Chisholm’s motion highlighted the need to address the resulting service gaps and ensure continuity of care for residents.
“The Nexus withdrawal has highlighted the urgent need for coordinated leadership and delivering responsibility and strategic planning to the mental health and disability support sectors of this Shire,” he said.
“As Councillors, we recognise the critical importance of robust mental health and disability support services in fostering a healthy, inclusive, and resilient community. The current approach to these issues lacks a strategic approach and leadership, leading to fragmented services and unmet needs.”
Cr Chisholm said that by leading discussions with agencies and government departments, Council can streamline efforts, enhance accountability, and ensure that resources are efficiently allocated to where they are most needed.
He was concerned that Council has no leadership role in actually delivering the services, but noted they do have a very significant role in seeing that they are delivered.
Cr Bob Cornish added his support to the motion, stating that he was also concerned over the Nexus withdrawal.
The motion was unanimously supported by all councillors in attendance.
