The Sunshine Coast is poised to become the epicenter of mental health innovation in Australia, with a groundbreaking treatment and research precinct planned for Birtinya. This ambitious project, spearheaded by Thompson Brain and Mind Healthcare (TBMH), aims to establish Queensland as a national leader in mental health care.
The centerpiece of this initiative will be an eight-storey, 10,000 square meter flagship facility within the Birtinya health precinct. This facility is designed to serve as a prototype for future expansions across the state and the nation. Digital models will further extend its reach, providing advanced mental health care to regional and rural Queensland.
“This precinct will be a cornerstone for mental health research, treatment, and innovation, not only for our region but for the nation,” TBMH CEO Professor Jim Lagopoulos stated.
Professor Lagopoulos emphasized the pioneering nature of the neuroscience-led approaches that TBMH is championing, which aim to reshape mental healthcare. The organization is actively collaborating with government and local representatives to bring this project to fruition for the Sunshine Coast community.
Project Details and Economic Impact
Plans for the Birtinya facility received approval in 2023, with construction expected to commence next year. The build is anticipated to take approximately two years. According to a TBMH press release, the project could generate up to 300 high-value jobs in technology, clinical care, and research.
The initiative is also projected to attract investment and international collaborations to Queensland through the global clinical trial and biomedical market. Additionally, it promises long-term cost savings through early intervention and reduced healthcare burdens.
By the Numbers: “The project could create up to 300 high-value jobs and deliver long-term cost savings through early intervention.”
Building on Past Success
The new facility will build on the success of TBMH’s Brain and Mind Hub in Maroochydore, which has provided over 4,500 instances of care since its opening 18 months ago. The hub has introduced Queensland-first treatments for a wide range of complex mental health conditions, including co-occurring disorders, neurodevelopmental issues, trauma-related presentations, and treatment-resistant depression and anxiety.
TBMH, a not-for-profit organization, has been recognized for its contributions to the field. It was recently named Best Large Health and Medical Services Business at the 30th annual Sunshine Coast Business Awards, and the Brain and Mind Hub was honored as Organization of the Year at the 2025 Sunshine Coast Community Gala Awards.
“These awards are a testament to the exceptional team we have built and the urgent need for innovative, accessible mental health care,” Professor Lagopoulos remarked.
Community and Philanthropic Support
TBMH acknowledged the crucial support of philanthropists Roy and Nola Thompson, whose generosity and vision have been instrumental in the development of the neuro-innovation and mental health hospital precinct. The ongoing delivery of mental health services to the Sunshine Coast community would not be possible without their contribution.
“My family and I are deeply excited to support this vision, and we are proud to stand behind TBMH as it works to make a lasting difference,” board member Peter Thompson expressed.
The announcement of the Birtinya project comes at a time when mental health care is increasingly recognized as a critical component of public health. As TBMH continues to innovate and expand, the Sunshine Coast is set to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of mental health care in Australia.
