One of Queensland’s most vital regional mental health services, Momentum Mental Health, is at serious risk of shutting down due to a major funding shortfall, sparking fears that lives may be lost if urgent action isn’t taken.
Based in Toowoomba, the service supports hundreds of vulnerable Australians, including those at risk of suicide or dealing with complex trauma. But uncertainty around future financial support could force Momentum to scale back or close, leaving regional patients without critical care.
Over 800 People Rely on Momentum Mental Health
Momentum Mental Health currently helps over 800 individuals each year through:
- Suicide prevention and crisis counselling
- Peer support and recovery programs
- Community-based care for adolescents and adults
CEO Debbie Bailey warned that without immediate intervention, the service could collapse within weeks. She stressed that some clients “will not survive” without the support Momentum provides.
“These are people who already struggle to access mainstream services,” Bailey said. “If we go, there is no Plan B.”
Lack of State and Federal Funding Raises Alarm
Despite multiple funding applications to state and federal governments, the not-for-profit has not secured long-term financial backing. Advocates say the issue highlights a broader problem in Australia’s rural mental health system, where services are often:
- Underfunded
- Overstretched
- Lacking in culturally sensitive care options
The local Darling Downs and West Moreton Primary Health Network confirmed funding had not been renewed but said discussions were ongoing.
Mental Health Needs in Regional Queensland Are Growing
Data shows that people in rural and remote Queensland are more likely to experience:
- Depression and anxiety
- Substance misuse
- Higher suicide rates than in metro areas
Yet, access to quality care remains a challenge, making community services like Momentum an essential lifeline.
Key Takeaways:
- Momentum Mental Health in Toowoomba faces imminent closure due to lack of funding
- Over 800 people rely on its free, community-based mental health services annually
- Closure may leave many vulnerable residents without lifesaving support
- Advocates are urging state and federal leaders to intervene immediately
- This reflects a larger crisis in regional mental healthcare access across Australia
Source: Courier Mail – Darling Downs Life-Saving Mental Health Service at Risk Amid Funding Uncertainty
