Ms ADDISON (Wendouree): My adjournment matter is for the Minister for Education and the action that I seek is for the minister to provide me with an update on the mental health in schools program and how it is supporting Ballarat students in my electorate of Wendouree.

As a former teacher, I know firsthand that many students experience mental health issues and challenges. Therefore, it is so important that children and young people receive quality mental health care when they need it most.

That is why I am proud to be a member of the Andrews Labor government and that we have committed to rolling out mental health professionals in every government secondary school to give students the support they need.

Support for the mental health of our students is absolutely paramount, particularly after the year that we have just experienced. 2020 was a very challenging year for our teachers, students and families as a result of the global pandemic and the remote learning. Many young people felt disconnected and found the disruption to their schooling, sport and social lives very difficult to manage. The ongoing uncertainty of COVID-19 continues to impact our young people and support for their wellbeing is vital.

I welcomed the rollout of the Mental Health in Schools program in my electorate of Wendouree last year, including dedicated mental health practitioners now appointed for students at Mount Rowan Secondary College, Ballarat High School and Yuille Park P–8 Community College.

I wish to thank the minister for his commitment to supporting Victorian students and ensuring that all students get the support and help they need in and out of the classroom.

I look forward to receiving the update from the Minister for Education on the mental health supports that are in place for students in my electorate of Wendouree and sharing this information with my community.

Read the Minister’s response here – or for more of my contributions in Parliament, click here.