New referral pathway for Country SA PHN-funded mental health services
For GPs & health professionals
As of 31 March 2025, all referrals from GPs and health professionals to Country SA PHN-funded primary mental health care services, including those provided by Sonder, are encouraged to be directed through the Medicare Mental Health Phone Service. This change aims to streamline access by establishing a single-entry point into and between all primary mental health care services, such as Medicare Mental Health Centres, headspace, and other regional programs.
Sonder’s Country Mental Health & AOD Services
Sonder offers a range of mental health and alcohol and/or other drug (AOD) services across country South Australia:
- Country Wellness Connections – Non-clinical psychosocial support for individuals experiencing mental health challenges, helping them to build skills, confidence, and independence. Appointments are available in Gawler, Nuriootpa, or at a suitable location close to the individual.
- Clinical Care & Coordination – Clinical care planning and service coordination for individuals with severe and persistent mental health concerns. Appointments are available in Nuriootpa, Gawler, Strathalbyn, Port Pirie, Clare, or Kadina.
- Adult Wellbeing – Psychological therapy for individuals experiencing mild to moderate mental health concerns. Appointments are available in Nuriootpa or Gawler.
- AIM – Support for individuals dealing with both alcohol and/or other drug use concerns and mental health challenges. Appointments are available in Nuriootpa, Gawler, Victor Harbor, or Kingscote.
New referral process
To refer a patient to any of Sonder’s country mental health and AOD services, including Clinical Care & Coordination, Adult Wellbeing, Country Wellness Connections, and AIM, GPs and other health professionals should:
1. Complete the Country Mental Health & AOD Referral Form.
2. Submit the completed form along with any supporting documents (e.g., Mental Health Treatment Plan, Discharge Summary, Assessments) to the Medicare Mental Health Phone Service via one of the following methods:
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- HealthLink: EDI: sahthiar
- Fax: (08) 9647 6233
- Email: CSAHTH@neaminational.org.au
3. For assistance or to discuss a referral, contact the Medicare Mental Health Phone Service at 1800 595 212 (available weekdays from 8.30 am to 5.00 pm).
We appreciate your cooperation in adapting to this new referral pathway.
If you have any questions or need further assistance, please reach out to our team via email info@sonder.net.au or phone (08) 8209 0710.