The Department of Health is calling for Victorians to have their say on a new Mental Health and Wellbeing Act, the cornerstone for a redesigned mental health and wellbeing system.
As the lead Agency responsible for mental health legislation in Victoria, the Department is to develop the new Act and has released an engagement paper, Mental Health and Wellbeing Act: Update and Engagement Paper, describing the Act’s development and proposals on policy issues.
Minister for Mental Health, James Merlino said the new Act was a recommendation of the Royal Commission into Victoria’s Mental Health System and would replace the Mental Health Act 2014 by mid-2022.
“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,” Mr Merlino said.
“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,” he said.
“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.”
Mr Merlino said the Act would transform the way treatment, care and support for Victorians with mental illness and psychological distress was delivered.
The Minister said people could have a say on the Act and the Department’s Engagement Paper until 4 July.
The Department’s 45-page Paper, including information on how to have a say, can be accessed at this PS News link or online at this link.
