EMMA MCBRIDE MP
FEDERAL MEMBER FOR DOBELL
SHADOW ASSISTANT MINISTER FOR MENTAL HEALTH
SHADOW ASSISTANT MINISTER FOR CARERS

HELPING SCHOOL STUDENTS BOUNCE BACK

It’s been a tough two years for students on the Coast, but Labor has a plan to help them bounce back from the pandemic.

An Albanese-Labor Government will deliver $440 million to help schools stay COVID-safe, and extra funding to support the mental health and wellbeing of students.

The funds will go towards better ventilation in schools, more outdoor classrooms and air purifiers, and more school counsellors and psychologists.

Federal Member for Dobell, Emma McBride says we need to make sure students, families and school communities have all the support they need.

“As the Shadow Assistant Minister for Mental Health, I know how important it is to support the mental health and wellbeing of young people,” she said.

“We know from organisations like the Black Dog Institute that approximately half of all lifetime mental health issues begin before the age of 14, and more young people are seeking help during COVID.”

As students prepare to return to the classroom next week, Ms. McBride says Labor wants to give families more certainty for the future.

“Parents and caregivers deserve to know their children will be COVID-safe when they return to school, and they deserve to know their mental health and well-being is a priority,” she said.

“Unfortunately, this Government has left students and families uncertain about the year ahead.

“That’s why Labor has come up with a plan to help students bounce back.”

THURSDAY 27, JANUARY 2022