Plans for a major redevelopment across adjacent properties have prompted the First Step mental health, addiction and legal services hub to relocate after 25 years on Carlisle Street to new location in Mitford Street just 650 metres away.
First Step has been working for over two decades from 42 Carlisle Street (and more recently an adjacent tenancy on Greeves) providing integrated support to people experiencing addiction, mental health and legal issues.
CEO Patrick Lawrence told TWiSK that the need to relocate to a new facility came at a crucial time.
“The lease on our Greeves Street property, where some of our vital services like First Step Legal and ResetLife are located, is ending as the building is being sold as part of a large development project. This means that we would lose nearly 50% of our office space.
“On top of this, the current mental health reform in Victoria is in flux. While there was a strong push to implement changes following the Royal Commission into Victoria’s Mental Health System, these reforms have stalled, leaving organisations like First Step in a challenging position.
“We have the expertise, the model, and the commitment to deliver integrated care – but we need the space to do it.
“By moving [to Mitford Street], we not only solve our space issues but also set ourselves up for the future, for long-term sustainability, and for increasing the impact and reach of our work.
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“A multi-dimensional problem, such as co-occurring mental distress and substance use, requires a multi-disciplinary solution. Over the past 25 years First Step has proven itself to be up to the challenge.
“That is why, in our new location, First Step will establish itself as a Centre for Excellence in multi-disciplinary team care for people with co-occurring needs, including drug use.
“This relocation is more than just a physical move – it’s a chance to increase our impact, and better meet the needs of the people who we seek to help. All staff from both buildings are moving,” said Patrick.
The relocation will be complete by early 2025.
