Australia\u2019s first industry-specific mental health program to support commercial fishers is now underway with a new pilot program starting\u00a0in Lakes Entrance.<\/p>\n
The Federal Government is investing $600,000 for\u00a0Seafood\u00a0Industry Australia (SIA) to deliver a range of mental health initiatives for\u00a0locals in the sector.<\/p>\n
Local MP Darren Chester said the program\u00a0was\u00a0being\u00a0piloted in industry-selected\u00a0regions throughout Australia, including Lakes Entrance.<\/p>\n
\u201cThree advocates\u00a0will\u00a0receive mental health first aid training to provide support to local fishermen,\u201d Mr Chester said.<\/p>\n
\u201cWe want to ensure that our local fishers have access to the support they\u00a0need,\u00a0and this program provides\u00a0them with an entry point for mental health services.<\/p>\n
\u201cIt has been a difficult year for many and\u00a0providing this additional support will help those who are struggling with their mental health.\u201d<\/p>\n
Mr Chester said a range of factors including\u00a0job insecurity\u00a0and economic strain had\u00a0contributed to poor levels of mental health among local fishers.<\/p>\n
\u201cWe are living in uncertain times and that can cause\u00a0angst as\u00a0we work through the challenges of the coronavirus pandemic,\u201d Mr Chester said.<\/p>\n
\u201cThis is one way to let local fishers know that help is not only available but\u00a0can\u00a0also be\u00a0accessed\u00a0locally.\u201d<\/p>\n
The pilot program will run to April 2022.<\/p>\n