A new headspace centre designed specifically for First Nations youth is set to open in Deception Bay, providing culturally safe mental health support for young people in the Moreton Bay region.
A Groundbreaking Initiative for First Nations Youth
A new headspace centre, named Staying Deadly | headspace Deception Bay, is set to open in Deception Bay, aiming to address the mental health needs of First Nations youth in the Moreton Bay region. As an Australia-first initiative, it will provide culturally safe support, care, and connection tailored specifically for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander young people.
The new service, located on the lands of the Kabi Kabi people at 665 Deception Bay Road, will be operated by the Institute for Urban Indigenous Health (IUIH). Expected to open during the 2025-26 financial year, it will be the first headspace in the country designed specifically for First Nations young people.
Addressing Mental Health Challenges in the Community
The suicide rate among Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people is more than double that of the general community, highlighting the urgent need for culturally appropriate support. The Deception Bay service will offer a range of mental health support, focusing on increasing literacy, boosting help-seeking behaviours, and reducing suicidal and psychological distress.
To achieve this, the centre will employ care coordinators with lived experience, specialist mental health clinicians, and other health practitioners. The aim is to walk alongside the community, offering holistic support and guidance to help young people achieve their goals.
According to IUIH CEO Wayne Ah Boo, the Staying Deadly approach prioritises mental health “our way,” ensuring services reflect community goals and support healthy, resilient young people.
Community and Government Support
Local officials Malarndirri McCarthy and Emma McBride both emphasised the importance of having accessible, culturally safe mental health care for First Nations youth. They highlighted that the funding is part of a broader commitment to expanding headspace services nationwide.
The government have invested over $300 million to increase the number of headspace centres to 174 by 2026, including 91 in regional areas. The Deception Bay hub will join existing First Nations-focused headspace services in Mt Isa, Broome, and Alice Springs.
A Community-Driven Approach
Staying Deadly | headspace Deception Bay was shaped by community feedback, emphasising the need for a service that aligns with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander values. It will also be part of the IUIH network’s integrated care system, aiming to foster strong, healthy children, families, and communities.
Next Steps for the New Service
The centre’s opening is slated for the 2025-26 financial year. It is expected to significantly impact the well-being of young First Nations people in the Deception Bay area. It aims to be a welcoming, supportive environment where youth can access mental, physical, and sexual health services, work and study support, and guidance on alcohol—and drug-related issues.
Online support will remain available through eheadspace for those who prefer remote assistance.
Published 2-Apr-2025
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