The peak body for psychiatrists welcomes the appointment of three key mental health roles within the Victorian Government - the new Minister for Mental Health, Gabrielle Williams MP, Parliamentary Secretary for Mental Health, Tim Richardson MP, and the new Health Minister, Mary-Anne Thomas MP. 

Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Psychiatrists (RANZCP) Victorian Chair, Dr Astha Tomar, said the three key roles within the Andrews Government have a pivotal role to play in ensuring Victorians have access to the mental health services they deserve. 

'Victoria is in the midst of the most significant transformation of Victorian mental health legislation we’ve seen in decades', Dr Tomar said. 
“This period of change and challenge presents a valuable opportunity to reshape the mental health system into one which meets the needs of Victorians now and into the future, wherever they live.  

'We are looking forward to working with the new Mental Health Minister and Health Minister to ensure that mental health gets the serious attention it deserves'.

'Having strong, consistent leadership in this sector, particularly during this critical period of reform, is crucial. The new Mental Health Minister, Health Minister and Parliamentary Secretary for Mental Health have a significant task in front of them, one which the RANZCP looks forward to working with them closely on'.

Dr Tomar said the RANZCP Victorian Branch also thanked the outgoing Minister for Mental Health, James Merlino MP, for his collaborative approach to mental health in the state during his time in the portfolio.

'The RANZCP Victorian Branch appreciated a collaborative association with the previous Minister for Mental Health, including regular meetings, and we continue to welcome opportunities for collaboration with the Victorian government, the Victorian Department of Health, and other stakeholders across the system to develop focused solutions to improve the mental health and wellbeing of Victorians'.

'Our members have welcomed the Victorian Governments’ vision and investment to improve the mental health and wellbeing of the Victorian community, including the commitment and support for those with a lived experience as well as our vital mental health and wellbeing workforce. We look forward to continuing to build on this work to ensure a safe and responsive mental health and wellbeing system in Victoria'.

For all other expert mental health information visit Your Health in Mind, the RANZCP’s consumer health information website.

ENQUIRIES: For more information, or to arrange an interview call +61 437 315 911, or email media@ranzcp.org

The Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Psychiatrists is a membership organisation that prepares medical specialists in the field of psychiatry, supports and enhances clinical practice, advocates for people affected by mental illness and advises governments and other groups on mental health care. For information about our work, our members or our history, visit www.ranzcp.org.

In Australia: If you or someone you know needs help, contact Lifeline on 13 11 14 or www.lifeline.org.au or the Suicide Callback Service on 1300 659 467 or www.suicidecallbackservice.org.au.

In Aotearoa New Zealand: If you or someone you know needs help, 1737 is here to help, for free - Mental Health. You can also contact Lifeline NZ on 0800 543 354 or www.lifeline.org.nz or the Suicide Crisis Helpline on 0508 828 865 or www.lifeline.org.nz/suicide-prevention.