Central Geelong Mental Health Hub (CGMHH)

The Central Geelong Mental Health and Wellbeing Hub is a state-of-the-art facility designed to provide integrated mental health and alcohol and other drug (AOD) services to the local community. Officially opened in September 2024, the hub consolidates various mental health services under one roof, offering a comprehensive range of support including assessment, treatment, care planning, education, and peer support.

The facility operates seven days a week and is accessible without the need for a GP referral or Medicare card, ensuring that services are available to all individuals aged 26 and over experiencing mental health or substance use concerns.

The hub’s design incorporates biophilic principles, creating a calming and restorative environment that promotes wellbeing. Features such as full-height green walls, sculptural timber elements, and organic forms provide both visual and tactile connections to nature. Soft transitions, warm timber finishes, and dynamic lighting mimic natural patterns, enhancing comfort and reducing stress for both consumers and staff.

A unique aspect of the design process was the involvement of individuals with lived experience in mental health, who played a key role in shaping the interior design. Their insights led to the creation of spaces that feel welcoming and safe, moving away from traditional clinical environments to more home-like settings

Location
Geelong, VIC

Community impact
The Central Geelong Mental Health and Wellbeing Hub significantly enhances access to mental health and AOD services for the local community. By providing a central location with extended operating hours, the hub reduces barriers to care and ensures that individuals can receive support when needed most. The integration of biophilic design elements not only improves the aesthetic appeal of the space but also contributes to a therapeutic environment that supports recovery and wellbeing. This initiative aligns with the recommendations of the Royal Commission into Victoria’s Mental Health System, aiming to transform mental health services into more accessible and consumer-centered care models.