The Western Australian government is launching a new eating disorder clinic near Mandurah next month in response to growing concerns about mental health services for individuals suffering from eating disorders. This development is part of a larger initiative to improve access to treatment, as many families continue to face challenges in getting adequate care for their loved ones. The decision has sparked discussions about the critical need for a dedicated residential facility, which has been requested since 2019 but remains several years away from realization.

Families and advocates have expressed frustration over the lack of residential treatment options. Deanne De-Meer Brown, a mother who has supported her daughter through eating disorder challenges, highlighted the inadequacy of current outpatient services by recalling a moment of despair during hospital visits. The emotional toll on families grappling with eating disorders underscores the urgency for more comprehensive treatment solutions, particularly residential care that can provide intensive support.

The state budget allocated $5 million for planning a residential clinic, but its anticipated timeline suggests that those in need of such services will have to wait longer. This delay presents a critical gap in the support system for individuals and families dealing with serious eating disorders in Western Australia, emphasizing the need for ongoing advocacy for improved mental health resources.