A roll call of experts from Victoria’s mental health sector will provide specialist advice on rebuilding and shaping the state’s mental health and wellbeing system, as part of the Andrews Labor Government’s nation-leading reform.
The Mental Health Ministerial Advisory Committee (MHMAC) met for the first time this week, chaired by Parliamentary Secretary for Mental Health Steve Dimopoulos, to help guide Victoria’s ten-year reform journey.
The MHMAC will identify and provide advice on emerging issues and best practice nationally and internationally in mental healthcare, shaping the reforms and identifying opportunities for further collaboration and innovation.
The Committee includes representatives of the Victorian Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisation, Transgender Victoria, Foundation House, Turning Point, The Victorian Mental Illness Awareness Council, Tandem, Thorne Harbour Health and the Victorian Multicultural Commission, and other peak bodies.
The MHMAC will be supported by a new sub-committee, the Interdisciplinary Clinical Advisory Group, chaired by Forensicare CEO Dr Margaret Grigg. It has a broad membership comprising some of Victoria’s leading mental health clinicians specialising in CALD and Aboriginal Victorian health, LGBTIQ+, disability and homelessness.
They will provide expert advice on systems, services and processes and ensure the needs, strengths and interests of Victoria’s diverse communities are represented – and work alongside the existing Lived Experience Advisory Group.
The Labor Government invested a record $3.8 billion in the Victorian Budget 2021/22 to kickstart the biggest mental health and wellbeing reform in Australia’s history, including $92.6 million to provide dedicated help for families and carers.
To find out more about the MHMAC visit mhrv.vic.gov.au.
As stated by Minister for Mental Health James Merlino
“We want to make sure our mental health and wellbeing system is the best it can be – that’s why we’re drawing on the expertise and experience of those who work in and use the system.”
“Our new Mental Health Ministerial Advisory Committee will play a vital role in shaping and guiding major reforms as part of our ten-year journey towards an improved mental health and wellbeing system.”
As stated by Parliamentary Secretary for Mental Health Steve Dimopoulos
“This is an exciting chance to sit down and hear from some of Victoria’s greatest minds on mental health and wellbeing, and use their knowledge and experience to shape our system for the better.”
