Prime Minister Scott Morrison said over the weekend that more support would be rolled out immediately to deal with the secondary effects of the health and economic crisis caused by coronavirus.
“As we battle coronavirus on both the health and economic fronts with significant support packages in place and more to come, I am very aware many Australians are understandably anxious, stressed and fearful about the impacts of coronavirus and what it brings,” Mr Morrison said.
“We are focused on saving lives and saving livelihoods and this new support package will provide much needed care and help to so many Australians facing hardship at no fault of their own.”
An initial $74 million is being put towards supporting the mental health and wellbeing of Australians, with $10 million earmarked for a dedicated coronavirus wellbeing support line, delivered by Beyond Blue, to help people experiencing stress or anxiety due to employment changes, business closure, financial difficulties and other challenges.
Another $14 million will bolster the capacity of mental health support providers who have experienced an unprecedented surge in call volumes with funding increasing their capacity, including $5 million for Lifeline and $2 million for Kids Helpline.
‘Life-saving initiative’
In welcoming the news, the Australian Small Business and Family Enterprise Ombudsman Kate Carnell said the new dedicated coronavirus mental health support service for small and medium-sized businesses announced by the federal government is a ‘life-saving’ initiative.
“The government is providing substantial funding to Beyond Blue to deliver a coronavirus wellbeing support line for those experiencing stress or anxiety related to the COVID-19 crisis,” Ms Carnell said.
“It’s absolutely vital that there is a specialised approach for SMEs and sole traders, who are under extraordinary pressure right now.
“My office will be working closely with Beyond Blue to help ensure small businesses are being supported during this uncertain time.”
Last week, her office added a coronavirus section to its My Business Health page, having recognised the toll small business owners are experiencing as a result of coronavirus related lockdowns.
