The Cowra office had been run as an offshoot to headspace’s Central West headquarters in Bathurst, but was under threat due to funding concerns.

NSW state manager Lisa Kelly said following the funding increase and strong local community support, NSW Central West headspace – which offers health advice, support and information to young people – was now in a position to secure the future of its Cowra presence.

“I’d like to congratulate former centre manager Narelle Stocks for her spirited advocacy and also the local community, which has really thrown its weight behind this issue,” Ms Kelly said.

“The confirmation of this previously-announced increase in funding from the Federal Government is just one of a number of factors that has given the centre operators the tools to ensure that headspace services can continue in Cowra.

“Other factors include the strong buy-in from local agencies and community groups.

“In particular, acknowledgement needs to be given to the Division of General Practice for contributing additional funding to recruit a psychologist to Cowra.

“The local community, under the leadership and initiative of the Rotary Club, has provided a fantastic donation of nearly $35,000, which is also an indication of just how much the Cowra community is behind headspace.”

Ms Kelly said the headspace model meant the strength and reach of any local headspace centre is derived not only from government funding, but also the level of community ownership of the issue.

“And nowhere is this more evident than in Cowra,” she said.

Headspace Central West’s clinical service integration manager Peter Rohr said it was “wonderful” to finally be able to confirm funding for NSW Central West headspace.

“This creates the opportunity to work towards developing a sustainable service in partnership with other local organisations,” he said.