Mount Isa Welcomes New Medicare Mental Health Centre

Mount Isa celebrated a major milestone for community wellbeing on Tuesday, 14 October, with the opening of the Medicare Mental Health Centre (MMHC) at 74 Camooweal Street.

The launch was widely praised as a timely boost for a region that had faced years of economic uncertainty and growing concerns over mental health.

The MMHC is the first of its kind in North West Queensland, providing locals with access to a broad spectrum of mental health services including psychiatry, psychology, peer support, cultural support, and social work.

The centre operates on a ‘no wrong door’ approach, ensuring anyone experiencing mental distress could receive the support they needed, either in-person, via phone, or through telehealth.

The opening was attended by The Hon Emma McBride, Assistant Minister for Mental Health and Suicide Prevention and Assistant Minister for Rural and Regional Health, Mount Isa Mayor Peta McCrae, WQPHN CEO Sandy Gillies, RHealth CEO John Cain, and local health providers and stakeholders.

WQPHN CEO Sandy Gillies highlighted the importance of early intervention and culturally sensitive support, noting that the MMHC would provide relief and reassurance to those struggling with mental health pressures in the community.

RHealth CEO John Cain emphasised the centre’s extensive referral pathways and community engagement, ensuring that residents could access help efficiently and confidently.

The launch marked a major step forward for mental health support in Mount Isa, with the new Centre providing accessible, coordinated care through walk-in and scheduled services. Integrated with local and regional providers, it represents a vital investment in community wellbeing and strengthens the region’s capacity to respond to mental health needs.