Government Increases Mental Health Funding to $10 Million

The government has announced a significant increase in funding for mental health services, now totaling $10 million over the next two years. This funding aims to support non-government organizations and community providers, with a notable adjustment to the funding criteria. The matched funding threshold has been lowered from $250,000 to $100,000 for the second round of the initiative.

Mental Health Minister Matt Doocey emphasized the government’s commitment to removing barriers to mental health support. He stated that the funding will enable people to access the right assistance earlier and ensure that communities and workplaces can obtain mental health resources when needed. “I have been very clear that this government is not only focused on ensuring the right support is in place to treat mental health issues but also on preventing Kiwis from reaching that point,” Doocey said.

The funding is part of a broader strategy to increase investment in prevention and early intervention, recognizing the vital role of grassroots organizations in enhancing access to mental health support. Among the new recipients is Hearts and Minds, a support coordination service that will expand early intervention services in Auckland’s Waitematā region.

Additionally, The Loft, a community hub in Christchurch, will receive funding for a new digital service that is expected to assist an additional 200 people. MATES in Construction, which received funding in the first round, will now receive extra support to reach an additional 3,000 construction workers across 19 regions.

Asian Family Services, which provides culturally tailored health support for Asian New Zealanders, will also benefit from this funding. The organization will use the funds to support its mental health and addiction practitioners in Auckland and Wellington, as well as to enhance its nationwide telehealth service.

In November 2023, other organizations such as Barnardos, Netsafe, and the Graeme Dingle Foundation were also announced as recipients of the second round funding. The first round saw support for groups including the Mental Health Foundation, YouthLine, and the Sir John Kirwan Foundation.

Organizations interested in accessing the fund must match the amount they are seeking, a requirement that was criticized by the Labour Party during the initial announcement of the funding. By lowering the threshold, the government aims to make it easier for smaller organizations to participate and offer their vital services to those in need.