13th March, 2014
CHARLEVILLE: QUEENSLAND's worsening drought crisis has prompted a review of the delivery of mental health services in rural areas.
Health Minister Lawrence Springborg speaking in Charleville this morning said the drought had exposed holes and a lack of coordination in service delivery that needed to be addressed.
"We have a myriad of services but it is apparent there is some disconnect and duplication of services," Mr Springborg said.
"Despite the best intentions of different groups trying to do their best to deliver services, we have to bring an end to ad hoc service delivery.
"We have to identify the gaps where they exist and then identify how we can fill the gaps."
Paroo Shire Mayor Lindsay Godfrey said mental health problems brought on by drought had long been a problem in the bush.
"The only thing that seems to improve the mental health situation is better seasons," Cr Godfrey said.
"Now people in the bush are suffering a complete lack of cash flow.
"This lack of cash is creating stress because people can't see a way forward."
Queensland's Mental Health Commissioner Lesley van Schoubroeck said farmers continued to have higher than average suicide rates.
The round table meeting is also being attended by Agriculture Minister John McVeigh and Federal Member for Maranoa, Bruce Scott.
Mark Phelps is editor-in-chief of Queensland Country Life
