Our Story

Central Coast ARAFMI is a grassroots, not-for-profit organisation established by mental health carers in 1976.

Central Coast Arafmi (pronounced ah-raf-me) started as a social space in Kincumber especially for people impacted by mental ill health. Created by families and loved ones, this was the first space on the Central Coast exclusively dedicated to whole families impacted by mental health issues.

In 1994 we launched the Yakkalla pilot program in Bateau Bay.

Today, Yakkalla continues, along with The Trust—Beyond the Stigma in Narara, providing social and recreational activities for people impacted by mental health issues and trauma, along side Arafmi's Family and Carer support program.

In addition to these programs, as part of our University and TAFE partnerships, we also provide the Central Coast community with reciprocal learning environments.

We welcome NDIS and non-NDIS participants to our programs, so that anyone who is impacted by mental ill health can access support.

Recognition of our Work

Recognition of our work includes:

  • 2005 & 2007 Mental Health Matters Awards
  • 2014 Central Coast Local Health District Quality & Innovation Award
  • 2018 THEMES Award
Julia Gillard presents Central Coast ARAFMI (Erin Higgins) with the 2018 THEMES Award
Julia Gillard presents Central Coast Arafmi (Erin Higgins, our beloved Peer Support Worker) with the 2018 THEMES Award

Our Mission

Central Coast ARAFMI promotes mental health and well-being for all, by drawing on the strength and knowledge of our community and by providing education, resources and opportunities.

Our Vision

Our vision is for a community that understands and responds to the impact that mental illness has on individuals and their families. 

Annual Reports

Our Spaces

Lerida House

Lerida House, at 21 Bellbowrie Ave Narara, is a heritage-listed estate, with:

  • Central Coast Arafmi offices and meeting rooms
  • Community hire spaces
  • The Trust—Beyond the Stigma program (café/ creative spaces/ handy person room/ pottery room with kiln)
  • Respite accommodation
  • Leafy gardens (maintained by our wonderful team of volunteers)

We welcome you to visit us and take a stroll around the gardens or learn more about how we support individuals and families impacted by mental health issues.

Yakkalla Cottage

Yakkalla Cottage at 6 Community Road Bateau Bay, is home to Yakkalla social and recreational program.

Yakkalla Cottage is available as a community meeting space.

Visit our Locations

Drop into Lerida House, or Yakkalla Cottage between 9am - 4pm Monday to Thursday. It is best to phone ahead, so we can expect your visit.

Click here to see our location on Google Maps or to contact us.

Mental Health Support

Our mental health support services are open to anyone aged 18 and over, whose lives have been impacted by mental illness.

Family & Carers Support

We have a designated worker who is dedicated to supporting families, working holistically within the family unit.

Respite Accommodation

We offer short-stay accommodation for carers and individuals that are experiencing mental health issues.
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