Craig Lloyd, Murrindindi Shire CEO

Poor access to mental health services for Kinglake Ranges residents was a major issue in the lead-up to the State Election.

Politicians were reminded that Kinglake Ranges residents were being referred to health practitioners as far away as Shepparton, rather than to nearby help at Whittlesea.

Murrindindi Shire CEO Craig Lloyd signalled to Council this week that nearby help might now be just around the corner.

“Improving access to Mental Health Services in the Kinglake Ranges, and in particular the restrictions preventing residents accessing nearby services in the Melbourne suburbs has been a priority of Council for some time,” Mr Lloyd said.

“In recent days Council has received advice from the Department of Health and Human Services that changes to facilitate access to the nearby services have been agreed. Council is awaiting further details of this change but it appears progress is being made.”