Victorian Mental Health system changes from 1 September 2023

Mental Health and Wellbeing Act 2022

Education and training resources to support the sector and community to understand the new Act are now available at Health Victoria including:

• The Mental Health and Wellbeing Act 2022 handbook, which provides guidance to the Act
• New statements of rights (for use from 1 September)
• A detailed comparison of key provisions in the Mental Health and Wellbeing Act 2022 and the Mental Health Act 2014
• Summary of the key changes to the new Act in a chapter-by-chapter breakdown Mental Health and Wellbeing Act 2022
• A quick guide video series of frequently asked questions about the Act
• Tandem Mental Health Act Resources.

Mental Health and Wellbeing Commission

From 1 September 2023, the work and functions of the Mental Health and Complaints Commissioner (MHCC) will transfer to the new Mental Health and Wellbeing Commission (MHWC).

The new Commission will take on the existing functions of the current Mental Health Complaints Commissioner, with new responsibilities for handling and responding to complaints.

Key changes include:

Complaints

A family member, carer, or supporter of someone with mental health challenges, will now be able to lodge a complaint in relation to their own experience. If a complaint has already been lodged with the Mental Health and Complaints Commissioner, and it is still open or active by 1 September 2023, the complaint will be automatically carried over to the new Mental Health and Wellbeing Commission.

Mental Health Service Providers

The new Act contains stronger requirements for mental health services and decision-makers to comply with the principles of the new Act. If you believe that a service has not made reasonable efforts to uphold the principles, you can lodge a complaint.

Mental Health and Wellbeing Commission contact process

The phone number and address for the Commission will stay the same as the previous contact details:

Phone: 1800 246 054

Address: Level 26, 570 Bourke St, Melbourne 3000.

The website has changed to www.mhwc.vic.gov.au. Queries sent through the old MHCC website will be redirected to the new site automatically.

New Independent Mental Health Advocacy - opt-out information

The Independent Mental Health Advocacy (IMHA) is a state-wide service for people receiving — or at risk of receiving — compulsory treatment under Victoria's Mental Health Act 2014.

From September 1, 2023, IMHA will automatically be notified at key points to provide non-legal advocacy. To find out about these points, read their fact sheet about their new opt-out advocacy service.

For more information email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or call the IMHA phone line on 1300 947 820 which is staffed by IMHA advocates 9:30am - 4:30pm seven days a week, excluding public holidays.

More information can be found on NDS website