More help will be given to millions of Australians battling the devastating impacts of coronavirus with a $1.1 billion package which boosts mental health services, domestic violence support, Medicare assistance for people at home, and emergency food relief.
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As we battle COVID-19 on health and economic fronts, I am very aware many Australians are anxious, stressed and fearful about the impacts it will bring.
We will get through this by staying together, by supporting each other and ensuring no Australian, even though we have to be isolated, will go through this alone.
Medicare support at home - telehealth
Australians will be able to access support in their own home using their phone, or video conference features like FaceTime to connect with GP services, mental health treatment, chronic disease management, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health assessments, services to people with eating disorders, pregnancy support counselling, patients in aged care facilities, children with autism, after-hours consultations and nurse practitioners.
Domestic violence help
An initial $150 million will be provided to Australians experiencing domestic, family and sexual violence due to the fallout from coronavirus. The funding will boost programs under the national plan to reduce violence against women and their children.
Mental health support
The government's digital mental health portal, Head to Health (headtohealth.gov.au) will be a single source of authoritative information and guidance on how to: maintain good mental health during the COVID-19 pandemic; support children and loved ones in self-isolation; and how to access further mental health services and care.
Relief services for vulnerable Australians
An additional $200 million will be provided to support charities and other community organisations which provide emergency and food relief as demand surges as a result of coronavirus. The Community Support Package will provide flexible funds for services where demand is quickly increasing.