Chris Picton MP
Minister for Health & Wellbeing

Geoff Brock MP
Member for Stuart

A new mental health care service has officially opened in Port Pirie, providing residents of Port Pirie and surrounds experiencing distress with an alternative option to going to hospital.

The Mental Health Alternative Care Service (MHACS) is a voluntary and free service, offering a safe, caring and low-stimulus environment for people aged 16 and over who are experiencing a mental health crisis.

MHACS is staffed by Mental Health Clinicians and Mental Health and Peer Support workers who can link consumers with GPs, hospitals and community services and access to follow-up and aftercare planning. Staff also offer support to family, friends and carers when required.

Since its soft launch in February, MHACS has provided mental health support to 17 consumers in Port Pirie and surrounds.

The service is located at the old Port Pirie Community Heath Building on Alexander Street, within the Port Pirie Regional Health Service Campus. It is open Monday to Friday, from 8:30am to 4:30pm.

People can drop in or call ahead on 0403 816 239.

If you or someone you care for needs immediate emergency assistance, please call 000 or speak to the Mental Health Triage Team on 13 14 65.

Quotes attributable to Chris Picton
We understand that emergency departments can be intimidating for those who are seeking mental health assistance. That is why services such as the Port Pirie Mental Health Alternative Care Service are a great alternative for South Australians who require mental health advice and
support. We are committed to providing South Australians with more mental health support, and I congratulate the Yorke and Northern Local Health Network for establishing this fantastic initiative.

Quotes attributable to Member for Stuart, Geoff Brock MP
It is so important to offer the right supports for those experiencing mental health distress and this service will be a great addition for our local community. An emergency department is not always the best place for someone needing mental health assistance and I am grateful there is now this alternative option for members of our local community needing help.

Quotes attributable to Yorke and Northern Local Health Network CEO, Melissa Koch
We are delighted to officially launch the Port Pirie Mental Health Alternative Care Service, which provides a warm and inviting space for those in need of mental health support. Our dedicated team have been working hard to deliver a service that offers a calm space for consumers to decompress and access mental health support from an experienced team of mental health clinicians and mental health and peer support workers.

Quotes attributable to Yorke and Northern Local Health Network Director of Mental Health, Ms Debra Papoulis
The Port Pirie Mental Health Alternative Care Service offers a welcoming space for people who are experiencing lower acuity mental health distress. At the service, consumers can relax in a home-like environment in a common area or their own private room. When comfortable, our knowledgeable staff will be there to assist with the most appropriate care plan.