The Allan Labor Government’s mismanagement of mental health has again been exposed, with waitlists for drug and alcohol treatment nearly doubling since the Covid pandemic, despite Labor’s mental health tax raising $1 billion annually.
A recent survey by the Victorian Alcohol and Drug Association (VAADA) revealed a staggering 93 per cent surge in the number of Victorians waiting for treatment since September 2020.
Alarmingly, more than 4,600 people were waiting for treatment on any given day between June and July this year.
Labor’s mental health tax, designed to ease this crisis, has proven ineffective. Despite collecting nearly $1 billion a year, it has had little to no impact on the escalating waitlists.
The Nationals’ Member for Shepparton District, Kim O’Keeffe, said the government’s mismanagement of drug and alcohol addiction has a devastating impact on families and communities.
“It is appalling that Shepparton, like many other regional communities, doesn’t have adult residential rehabilitation beds. The government is ignoring our calls for support,” Ms O’Keeffe said.
“People in the community who are ready to seek treatment are told that there are lengthy waiting periods, and they will also have to go elsewhere to seek treatment, isolating them from their loved ones and support. Victoria’s most vulnerable residents are being left behind.”
“I would like to know where this $1 billion a year targeted for Mental Health is going.
“Labor can’t manage money, can’t manage our health system, and Victorian communities are paying the price.
“The funds are there, but instead of investing it where it is most needed, the government is spending it in the wrong places and failing those who need help the most.”