Shepparton YPARC Opens its Doors to Local Young People

Young people across the Goulburn Valley now have access to a new, dedicated mental health recovery service with the launch of Shepparton Youth Prevention and Recovery Care (YPARC).

The new service provides short-term residential mental health support for young people aged 16 to 25 years in a safe, welcoming and recovery-focused environment.

The Shepparton YPARC is a step-up, step-down service designed to support young people at different points in their mental health and wellbeing journey, with services delivered in partnership by GV Health and Mind Australia. Under the partnership, GV Health will provide clinical governance, while Mind Australia will manage the day-to-day operations, ensuring strong clinical oversight is complemented by community-focused service delivery.

Shepparton YPARC has 10 bedrooms, each with its own ensuite bathroom, alongside shared kitchen, dining and living areas. Breakout spaces and outdoor gardens provide opportunities for relaxation, recreation and connection, while dedicated spaces support group activities and individualised care.

Young people can stay at the service for up to 28 days and receive access to 24-hour support, personalised recovery planning, group programs, practical skill development and peer support from staff with lived and living experience of mental health challenges.

GV Health Chief Executive Matt Sharp said the service would fill an important gap in the region’s mental health system and provide young people with specialised support close to home.

“The opening of Shepparton YPARC is a significant milestone for mental health care in our region and will make a real difference for young people and their families,” Matt said.

This service provides a supportive, home-like environment where young people can focus on their recovery while receiving the right mix of clinical care and wellbeing support.

“Being able to access this type of specialised service locally means young people can remain connected to their families, friends, education and community while working towards their recovery goals,” Matt said.

Mind Australia Chief Executive Officer Denise Cumming said the service would provide young people with holistic support tailored to their individual needs.

Mind is Australia’s largest provider of sub-acute mental health services for young people, delivering YPARC and Youth Step Up Step Down (YSUSD) services nationally in partnership with local hospital and health services.

“Over many years, we have seen the life-changing difference that clinical care and psychosocial support can make when they work together to support young people,” Denise said.

“In partnership with GV Health, we look forward to providing holistic wrap-around mental health and wellbeing support that meets the needs of young people and the Greater Shepparton region.”