headspace Gawler Officially Opens its Doors

Youturn and Country SA PHN are proud to announce the official opening of headspace Gawler, offering young people aged 12–25 access to free and confidential mental health, physical health, alcohol and drug, and vocational support.

Located in the heart of Gawler, the new headspace centre has been designed in consultation with local young people to create a welcoming and inclusive environment where they can feel comfortable seeking help and connecting with others.

Youturn CEO, James Blevin, said the opening marks an important milestone for the organisation and for young people across the region.

“Youturn is proud to be expanding access to vital mental health support for young people in South Australia. With headspace Gawler now open, we’re strengthening our commitment to early intervention, collaboration, and community-led support,” Mr Blevin said.

“We are deeply grateful to Country SA PHN for their confidence and support in appointing Youturn as the lead agency for this new headspace centre. Their partnership has been instrumental in making this vision a reality and improving access to mental health care for young people in regional communities.”

Country SA PHN CEO, Mark Hartigan, said the new centre represents an important investment in the wellbeing of young people.

“Country SA PHN is thrilled to see the full headspace centre doors opening in Gawler to provide vital mental health and wellbeing support for the region’s young people,” Mr Hartigan said.

“A headspace centre in Gawler is a much-needed addition to the area and will have a positive impact on young people by providing support to help navigate life’s challenges as well as a space for young people to connect and engage.”

Centre Manager, Kym Staples, said there has been overwhelming community support for the establishment of a headspace service in the region.

“We’ve had such positive feedback from local schools, health providers, and youth services who are excited to see this centre open. It’s clear that young people in Gawler and surrounding areas have been waiting for a space like this – a safe, youth-friendly environment where they can access support early and build confidence in managing their wellbeing,” Ms Staples said.

“Young people were instrumental in shaping headspace Gawler. From selecting the site location to choosing the centre’s theme, colours, and even furniture, their voice has been at the centre of every decision.”

During the establishment phase, headspace Gawler has been actively building relationships with local services, schools, and the Gawler Council Youth Reference Group. Two young people have already joined the centre’s inaugural Youth Reference Group, which will continue to expand and help guide service delivery to ensure it reflects the needs and aspirations of local youth.

The new centre will be supported by a consortium of local service providers, ensuring a coordinated approach to supporting young people’s wellbeing. The team currently includes a Centre Manager, Clinical Lead, Community Engagement Worker, and Mental Health Clinician, with recruitment underway for additional roles.

The completion of the Gawler site represents a significant achievement and a shared vision of improving access to youth mental health support in regional South Australia.

How to Access Support

Getting support at headspace Gawler is simple and welcoming. Young people can:

Drop into the centre in person – 3 Whitelaw Terrace, Gawler, South Australia, 5118
Call directly on – (08) 8240 9100
Be referred by a family member, friend, or professional

The service is free and confidential, with a team dedicated to providing youth-friendly care every step of the way.

About Youturn:

Youturn is a community-based not-for-profit charity providing social, community, and mental health and wellbeing services across Australia. With more than 35 years of experience, we are trusted to support individuals and communities through life’s toughest challenges, empowering people of all ages to live safe, connected, and meaningful lives. Driven by compassion and equity, we support people in the areas of homelessness and accommodation, community and family support, mental health, and support after suicide loss. youturn.org.au

About headspace:

headspace provides early intervention mental health services to young people aged 12-25. Each year, headspace helps thousands of young Australians access support for their mental health, physical and sexual health, alcohol and other drug issues, and work and study needs.