More frontline workers will be deployed, and new services will be established to provide improved crisis response for those in need, Minister for Mental Health Matt Doocey announced.
The $61.6 million funding boost aims to enhance crisis response services across the country.
It includes the addition of 40 frontline clinical staff for crisis assessment and treatment teams nationwide, strengthening the Crisis Assessment Teams. Two new 10-bed peer-led acute alternative services will be established to help reduce inpatient ward admissions. Peer support will be expanded in emergency departments, with three more EDs receiving peer support workers, adding to the eight already in place.
Additionally, two new Crisis Recovery Cafés will open, bringing the total number to eight across the country.
“We don’t want people in distress waiting long periods of time for a crisis assessment. With 40 extra clinical staff, more New Zealanders will get faster access to crisis support,” Doocey said.
“People in crisis shouldn’t be waiting too long for an inpatient bed. Peer-led acute alternative services provide more choice for people experiencing mental health issues and get people seen quicker.”
“We’re already hearing great feedback about peer support workers in emergency departments. Rolling out peer support workers in more EDs will result in a better crisis response and more people being better supported.”
This announcement expands on Budget 2025, which allocated $28 million to launch 10 mental health co-response teams nationwide to handle 111 mental distress calls and increase crisis helpline capacity.
“When someone takes the brave step to reach out, whether it’s you, your child, a friend, or a family member, we’re committed to ensuring the right support is always there to answer that call. This package goes a long way in making sure that’s possible,” Doocey added.