The Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) is to be separated into two Departments to allow for focuses on the health system and the social recovery of the State.
Premier Daniel Andrews said the ongoing impact of the COVID-19 pandemic required a more focused approach to the delivery of essential community services during the eventual recovery.
“The new Department of Health (DoH) and the new Department of Families, Fairness and Housing (DFFH) will commence operation from 1 February 2021 and the Government will work closely with workers and their unions over the next two months to manage the transition,” Mr Andrews said.
“The Department of Health will be responsible for the Health, Ambulance Services, Mental Health and Ageing portfolios and, importantly, continue leading the Government’s public health response to the pandemic with Martin Foley as the Coordinating Minister,” he said.
“The Department of Families, Fairness and Housing will include the current DHHS portfolios of Child Protection, Prevention of Family Violence, Housing and Disability.”
Mr Andrews said Richard Wynne would take on the role of Coordinating Minister for the DFFH.
The Premier said DFFH would also be responsible for the key policy areas of Multicultural Affairs, LGBTQI+ Equality, Veterans, and the offices for Women and Youth.
“These portfolios are currently served by the Department of Premier and Cabinet and will transfer across when the Department of Families, Fairness and Housing begins operation on 1 February,” he said.
“Recently appointed Secretary Professor Euan Wallace will continue to lead DHHS through the transition period and will helm the Department of Health from 1 February.”
Mr Andrews said Sandy Pitcher would commence work as Secretary of DFFH from 14 December, to establish the new Department ahead of the formal change.
Ms Pitcher has served as Deputy Secretary for Case, Contact Tracing and Outbreak Management at DHHS.
