Hobart’s Peacock Centre Closes Mental Health Beds Due to Rat Infestation

The Peacock House, a 12-bed public mental health facility in southern Tasmania, is temporarily closed due to a rat infestation. This closure is part of the Peacock Centre, which offers various mental health services. Don’t worry, though, the wider Peacock Centre’s Safe Haven and Mental Health Integration Hub are still up and running.

The Health Department, in charge of the facility, is actively addressing the rodent issue with industrial cleaning and pest control. Patients have been relocated to other appropriate mental health services while staff affected by the closure are being redeployed. WorkSafe Tasmania, an occupational hygienist, and facilities management are all on board to ensure necessary remedial works are completed.

Although Peacock House has faced challenges in the past, like fires in 2016 and 2021, there is still hope for its future. While the closure may disrupt some services temporarily, other mental health resources are available, and the team is working tirelessly to get Peacock House back up and running soon. It’s heartening to see the Statewide Mental Health Services taking proactive measures to manage this situation. If you need help during this time, remember that the Access Mental Health Phoneline is just a phone call away at 1800 332 388.

The closure of Peacock House sheds light on the strain Tasmania’s mental health services have been under, with closures of other facilities in recent years. St. Helen’s Private Hospital in Hobart and the Hobart Clinic in Rokeby have faced financial challenges leading to closures or temporary shutdowns. However, efforts are being made to address these issues and ensure the availability of mental health services in the community.

If you or someone you know needs support, remember there are helplines you can reach out to, like Lifeline, Kids Helpline, MensLine Australia, Suicide Call Back Service, Beyond Blue, and Headspace. You are not alone, help is always available.