Summary
The proposed site for a new youth mental health Step Up, Step Down service has been announced for the Rockhampton region, marking an important step in improving access to care for young people closer to home.
The proposed site for a new youth mental health Step Up, Step Down service has been announced for the Rockhampton region, marking an important step in improving access to care for young people closer to home.
The purpose-built facility is planned for 103-109 High Street, Berserker, with designs currently being developed in consultation with project stakeholders.
The single-storey, six-bed facility has been thoughtfully designed to complement the surrounding neighbourhood. It will feature a residential-style façade facing High and Eldon streets, with parking located at the rear.
Internally, the building will be organised into four key zones, bedrooms with ensuites, communal living areas, treatment rooms, and staff and support spaces. The design centres around an internal courtyard to maximise natural light, with additional landscaped outdoor areas providing both covered and open spaces for residents.
The facility will provide short-term, residential-style care for young people aged 16 to 21, with stays of up to 28 days in a safe and supportive environment.
The service is designed to play a critical role in the mental health care continuum, supporting early intervention to help prevent hospital admissions and assisting young people to transition smoothly back into the community following acute care.
Health Service Chief Executive, Lisa Blackler said the new service would play an important role in supporting young people and their families across the region.
“Strong connections with families, carers and community supports are central to helping young people build confidence and maintain wellbeing beyond their stay,” Ms Blackler said.
The service will operate 24/7 in a welcoming, youth-friendly environment that is culturally safe and inclusive. Care is expected to be delivered through a partnership model, combining clinical support from the Hospital and Health Service with recovery-focused support from a specialist non-government organisation.
Mental Health General Manager, Kelley Yates said the focus of the service is on recovery and connection.
“Our goal is to support young people to recover and reconnect, with their families, education, work and their community,” they said.
“By providing this additional level of care, we can reduce the need for hospital stays and help young people transition back to everyday life with confidence.”
The Berserker location has been selected for its proximity to public transport and local services, while maintaining a comfortable, residential feel. The new service is expected to significantly enhance support options for young people and their families across the region.
Community engagement will continue as planning progresses, with staff, stakeholders, young people and families encouraged to share their feedback.
“We want this service to reflect the needs of the community it will support,” Ms Yates said. “Ongoing engagement will be key to ensuring we deliver a safe, effective and welcoming environment for young people.”
Construction is expected to commence in 2027, while the facility is expected to open in 2028.
For more information or to get involved, visit https://www.cq.health.qld.gov.au/hospitals-and-health-centres/rockhampton-hospital/rockhampton-youth-step-up-step-down-project