As a self-proclaimed finance illiterate human being, the budget announcement isn’t usually something that gets me too excited, however this year is a little different.
Timed closely to the federal election — expected to be some time in May — we’re not only finding out what saving and spending are being prioritised, but we’re also seeing what topics will be on the table during the approaching campaign period.
Although in my opinion it is highly doubtful we’ll see another term with the Coalition Government at the helm, here are some of my takes from the budget.
Mental health
Over seven years $737million has been allocated to deliver more services for people living with mental illness, including $461million for youth mental heath and suicide prevention.
The funding includes $152million to reduce waiting lists for headspace, $110million to extend the early psychosis youth services program for two years and $115million to trial eight adult mental health centres.
Additional funding of $111million is being provided for 30 new headspace services by 2021 to support young people, one of which will be in Echuca.
The government is also providing $54million across six years to establish four specialist residential facilities for eating disorders.
Only positives can come from this as mental illness continues to become one of the largest killers across all age demographics in the country.
With what looks to be a supposed priority on early intervention, we will hopefully continue to see changes that ultimately support better mental health outcomes in the future.
Community
support
New funding of $64.2million will be delivered towards social cohesion measures, providing funding opportunities for local sport, community languages, national community hubs and grants to encourage mutual understanding and celebrate diversity.
Building on previous grant rounds, a further $58.2million has been allocated into the Safer Communities Fund.
This funding will support local councils and community organisations to undertake crime prevention activities as well as help protect schools, religious institutions and other sites that face risks associated with religious and racial intolerance.
Living in a regional community, an emphasis on working together and the importance of embracing cultural diversity is always essential so a little cash injection is something we could all stand to benefit from in the near future.
Domestic
violence
A further $64million more has been allocated for sexual assault and domestic violence helpline, 1800RESPECT, and $82.2million more for frontline domestic violence services for women and children.
While $78million will go towards providing safe places for people impacted by domestic and family violence and $68million towards domestic and family violence prevention strategies.
Male victims of domestic violence will also get dedicated support through social workers who advocate on their behalf with $7.8million of funding.
No matter what side of the political fence you sit, domestic and family violence stand to be large issues discussed in the coming months and beyond, as they should be.
Let’s see the race to the top begin, with these topics as well as climate change and the environment firmly set as a priority I hope.
Ash Witoslawski is a journalist at The News.
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