Youth Focus to operate headspace in Manjimup, starting early 2026

Young people needing mental health support in Manjimup will soon have somewhere new to turn, with headspace one step closer to opening its doors early next year.

Youth Focus will provide the headspace service in Manjimup, including support for issues with mental health, physical and sexual health, work and study, and alcohol and other drugs.

As the operator of WA’s three Primary Health Networks, WA Primary Health Alliance selected Youth Focus as the lead agency to establish and operate the site, which is expected to open in the first half of 2026.

Youth Focus CEO Derry Simpson said the service would help provide young people access to the mental health care they needed, when and where they needed it.

“At headspace Manjimup, we’ll work alongside each young person to understand what kind of support feels right for them, and create a safe, welcoming environment where they can access integrated services designed to give them the skills and support they need most,” she said.

“With over a decade of managing headspace centres, and more than half of our services delivered in regional and remote areas of WA, including in the South West region, we know just how important it is for support to be available locally.

“By combining our experience with the deep local knowledge of partner organisations, we will deliver truly meaningful, integrated, and accessible support for the young people of Manjimup and their families”

WA Primary Health Alliance executive general manager of commissioned services Mark Cockayne said the new service would build on other initiatives already in place.

“Youth Focus is well placed to achieve this given their strong networks and experience operating headspace services across metropolitan and regional WA, including Midland, Albany, Geraldton and Northam,” he said.

Federal Member for O’Connor Rick Wilson recently met with some of the Youth Focus team in Manjimup to discuss how headspace would build on the services already available to youth in the area.

“The headspace model is well established and offers a range of services tailored to young people delivered in a safe and welcoming environment,” he said.

“Community members have been lobbying for the additional services that will be offered, and understand the importance of early support for young people as they deal with a variety of challenges to mental health and transition to adulthood.”