The Queensland Government has announced the appointment of contractors to build two new Youth Step Up Step Down facilities for Rockhampton and Townsville.
Paynters Pty Ltd has been awarded the contract to build the new six-bed Central Queensland facility in Berserker in Rockhampton, while Barpa Pty Ltd will build North Queensland’s six-bed facility at the Vincent Health Campus in Townsville.
The two new Step Up Step Down facilities will provide short-term residential mental health support 24/7 for young people aged 16 to 21 years.
The programs offer an alternative to hospital admission when additional support is needed, while supporting young people as they transition from hospital back to the community.
Design is progressing for both new purpose-built facilities, with construction expected to commence by the end of this year and be completed in late 2027.
Premier, David Crisafuli said the Government was delivering more mental health support across regional Queensland than ever before.
“This is about more support for young people when they need it most,” Premier Crisafulli said.
“This is what investing every dollar of the mental health levy into new and increased services looks like.”
Minister for Health and Ambulance Services, Tim Nicholls said the Hospital Rescue Plan was delivering health services when they were needed most.
“These new services will help make sure young people get the right support at the right time, improving mental health outcomes across both Central and North Queensland,” Minister Nicholls.
“By providing support in a residential community setting, young people can continue their education, work and family connections while getting the help they need to improve their mental health and wellbeing.”
