The Connect Hub has launched in Wollongong. Photo: Supplied.
As demand for mental health support continues to climb, Lifeline South Coast has opened a new, free, walk-in Connect Hub in Wollongong — a space where anyone can drop in and receive help from a trained supporter without an appointment or judgement.
Whether someone is experiencing stress, loneliness, or just needs to talk, community members can access the safe space to chat, find information about support in their area, and gain practical help.
Lifeline South Coast CEO Renee Green said the hub operated weekly at two locations – the Wollongong Library and Lifeline South Coast Community Hub – with no issue too big or too small.
“The Connect Hub is a place where people can feel heard, supported, and guided through whatever they are facing,” Renee said.
“We are thrilled to open this space to the Wollongong community and provide early support before challenges escalate.”
Lifeline South Coast services manager Helen Matwijiw said new Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) data highlighting the need for accessible, mental health support options reinforced the need for Lifeline South Coast to expand its services.
“Our face-to-face Connect Hub is part of a broader suite of local services aimed at preventing suicide and supporting people in crisis,” Helen said.
“By providing accessible, on-the-ground support, we can guide people to tailored services, strengthen community networks, and intervene early before challenges escalate.
“Our trained crisis supporters and connectors are here to listen, guide, and connect people to practical support and local services in a safe and compassionate environment.”
ABS’s 2024 cause of death data released this month showed suicide was the 16th leading cause of death, but was the leading cause of premature death in Australia.
“The release of the ABS’s latest data underscores the urgent need for services that respond to the complex factors contributing to suicide, and the importance of adapting evidence-based approaches that meet the needs of individuals and communities,” Renee said.
“Suicide does not discriminate. It impacts people from all backgrounds and circumstances, and each death has a profound effect on loved ones, workplaces, and communities.
“Behind every statistic, there is a person — and we remember the people who died by suicide, those who attempted to take their own life, and those who care for people living with suicidality.”
In June, Lifeline South Coast also launched its Community Kitchen to provide free meals for those in need.
Renee said the kitchen contributed directly to the organisation’s mission to empower and support the Illawarra to be suicide-safe through connection, compassion and hope.
At the time of the kitchen’s launch, she said it was looking to use the space in the Community Kitchen to expand its services to fully meet the community need.
The Connect Hub is open Wednesdays from 3 to 7 pm at the Wollongong Library at 41 Burelli Street, Wollongong and Thursdays from 3 to 7 pm at Lifeline South Coast Community Hub at 3 Court Lane, Wollongong. It will be closed on public holidays.
If you or someone you know needs help, you can contact:
Lifeline’s 24-hour crisis support line – 13 11 14
Suicide Call Back Service – 1300 659 467
