Victorians can have their say on a new Mental Health and Wellbeing Act, which will be the cornerstone for the redesigned mental health and wellbeing system that Victorians deserve.
The Royal Commission into Victoria’s Mental Health System recommended the Andrews Labor Government replace the current Mental Health Act 2014 with a new Mental Health and Wellbeing Act by mid-2022.
The Labor Government is seeking feedback on the development of the new Act through the Engage Victoria website. Responses can be provided until 4 July 2021.
The new Act will recognise people with lived experience in system leadership, as well as the entities needed to enable strong system accountability and transparency, such as the new Mental Health and Wellbeing Commission.
The Royal Commission is clear about its aspirations for a system that is accessible, provides a diverse range of high‑quality services, reflects the views, preferences and values of people living with mental illness or psychological distress, families, carers and supporters, and promotes and protects human rights.
The new Act will support the aspirations and vision of the Royal Commission, and is an important milestone in rebuilding Victoria’s mental health system.
The Labor Government will implement all recommendations of the Royal Commission and has invested a record $3.8 billion in the Victorian Budget 2021/22 to begin implementation. This includes funding of $7.7 million to develop the new Act.
People interested in providing feedback on the new Act are encouraged to visit engage.vic.gov.au/mhwa.
As stated by Minister for Mental Health James Merlino
“The establishment of the new Act will be a historic milestone for our new mental health and wellbeing system.”
“The new Act will transform the way we deliver treatment, care and support for Victorians with mental illness and psychological distress. This engagement is another step in rebuilding our mental health system”.
