Government Announces $10 Million Boost for Mental Health Innovation Fund

Youthline, Sir John Kirwan Foundation, and MATES in Construction Among First Recipients.

Mental Health Minister Matt Doocey has announced the first three recipients of the Government’s $10 million Mental Health and Addiction Community Sector Innovation Fund, designed to provide faster and more accessible mental health and addiction support for New Zealanders.

“This fund represents our commitment to empowering grassroots and community-based organisations that are already making a significant impact on the mental health and wellbeing of Kiwis,” Mr. Doocey said.

Supporting Innovative Mental Health Solutions

The funding will enable innovative initiatives by Youthline, the Sir John Kirwan Foundation, and MATES in Construction to expand their reach and offer tailored services to thousands of New Zealanders.

“Youthline will use its funding to expand its Counselling Your Way Programme, offering structured intervention for young people aged 16-24 experiencing low mood, depression, and anxiety. This programme provides eight-session interventions, filling a critical gap for young people in need of timely mental health support,” Mr. Doocey explained.

The Sir John Kirwan Foundation will scale up Mitey, an early intervention initiative training teachers to help children aged 5-13 develop the skills to manage their mental health. By fostering emotional resilience at an early age, Mitey aims to build a generation better equipped to handle mental health challenges.

MATES in Construction will enhance its workplace-based mental health programme, focusing on the wellbeing of construction industry workers. The additional funding will allow MATES to expand its services to main centres and smaller regions, offering critical support to an industry with disproportionately high rates of mental health issues.

Broader Mental Health Initiatives

The $10 million fund is part of a larger suite of Government initiatives to improve mental health and addiction services across New Zealand.

“Thousands of Kiwis will benefit directly from these projects. However, we know that addressing mental health challenges requires a multifaceted approach,” Mr. Doocey said.

He highlighted additional programmes such as funding for Gumboot Friday, increasing the number of funded psychology internships and psychiatry trainees, and the introduction of Peer Support Specialists in emergency departments.

“These efforts are all designed to ensure that New Zealanders can access mental health support when and where they need it, reducing barriers and wait times.”

Next Steps

The Government plans to open the next round of Innovation Fund applications in mid-2025, inviting more community organisations to propose initiatives that address pressing mental health and addiction challenges.

“By working with grassroots organisations, we are harnessing the expertise of those closest to the communities they serve. This is how we ensure faster, better, and more accessible mental health support for all New Zealanders,” Mr. Doocey concluded.

For more information on the Mental Health and Addiction Community Sector Innovation Fund, visit Mental Health Services NZ.