Investment in early intervention

We know that the key to meaningful change for families and communities is early support when people first reach out for help – well before they reach a crisis point. Intervening early not only helps individuals and their families – it reduces the need for more acute and costly services.

The Government invested $324 million in early intervention in the 2021/22 Budget. Building on last year’s investment, this Budget delivers an additional $504 million for early intervention initiatives.

Investments this year support students in crisis, those suffering mental ill health, persons exiting prison and those experiencing homelessness.

A new system with community based services at its core

We’re providing early access to substance use illness or addiction treatment as part of acute mental healthcare – meaning people get serious support early, rather than ending up in the emergency department during a crisis.

This Budget includes ongoing support to deliver integrated care, treatment and support for people living with an acute mental illness and substance use illness or addiction.

With this approach, we are ensuring that Victorians suffering from both illnesses receive the care they need in an accessible way.

Putting an end to homelessness

Stable housing is the bedrock of health and wellbeing. This Budget supports people who have a history of homelessness, to help them into the accommodation they need. The assistance provides street outreach and tailored case management to address barriers to exiting homelessness including substance abuse, poor physical and mental health and limited social supports, while also building their capacity to better manage their lives and their residential tenancy.

Supporting children at risk

This Budget will expand the Navigator program, helping an additional 1,400 severely disengaged young people to reconnect with learning.

This includes a trial to lower the eligibility age of the program to 10 to 11-year-olds, so they can get earlier intervention and support during the transition from primary school to secondary school.

Reducing re-offending and keeping Victorians safe

Targeted, earlier services and supports will reduce repeat offending and improve outcomes for over-represented cohorts in the justice system.

With an emphasis on holistic and integrated responses, the initiatives expand effective reintegration and support services, and provide new approaches that foster stronger employment and engagement with family and community, targeted support for people with disability, and safe accommodation to offenders who would otherwise be at risk of homelessness.