What’s changing?

• The Head to Health website and phone service are now branded Medicare Mental Health.
• Existing services remain unchanged – same expert support, same free access, just under a new name and branding.
• A national rollout will see 61 Medicare Mental Health Centres established by 30 June 2026.
• In Victoria, 12 Head to Health clinics, including those in Officer and Berwick, will continue to operate under their current name but form part of the Medicare Mental Health network.

Key information for GPs and health professionals

Health professionals can continue to refer clients as usual. Here’s what you need to know:

• Referrals and processes remain unchanged.
  The only difference is the name – you’ll now see “Medicare Mental Health” on some referral pathways and promotional material.
• Refer patients to:
• Website: medicarementalhealth.gov.au – for mental health information, self-referrals, and service navigation.
• Phone service: 1800 595 212 – to speak with a local mental health clinician for advice and connection to appropriate services.
  Open weekdays, 8:30am–5pm (not a crisis line).
• Head to Health clinics in SEMPHN (Officer and Berwick) are still operating under the same name and accepting referrals via the same phone line.
• Marketing materials featuring the new branding will be available soon for practices and health professionals.

Behind the scenes

Across Australia, primary health networks are working closely with the Australian Government Department of Health and Aged Care to ensure that the transition from Head to Health to Medicare Mental Health is seamless for providers and patients.

Need support or have questions?

For clinical advice or referral support, contact SEMPHN's Referral and Access team on 1800 862 363 (Weekdays, 8:30 am–4:30 pm).