Major funding boost for Lifeline’s text and chat service

Lifeline is a national charity providing all Australians experiencing emotional distress with access to 24-hour crisis support and suicide prevention services.

Last week, NSW Mental Health Minister Rose Jackson announced a major funding boost to assist with the expansion of Lifeline’s 24/7 text, chat and other digital services for people experiencing emotional distress.

Ms Jackson said that mental health and emotional wellbeing remain a key priority for the state government, which has committed $8.2 million over five years to Lifeline to facilitate the text and webchat service for NSW residents.

“Now more than ever, people need access to lifesaving mental health support, and we are committed to ensuring people have that support,” Ms Jackson said.

Lifeline Australia CEO Colin Seery said that the funding will ensure that Lifeline can deliver more support to people in distress.

“Our digital services are used more by harder-to-reach and at-risk groups such as young people, people with disabilities and people experiencing domestic and family violence,” Mr Seery said.

“Demand for our digital services is increasing at a significant rate, and this funding will help to ensure people can access the support they need, wherever they are, day or night.”