The Andrews Labor Government has today opened expressions of interest for four Mental Health and Wellbeing Commissioners - a key recommendation of the Royal Commission into Victoria's Mental Health system.
The Commissioners will lead a new independent statutory authority, established through the new Mental Health and Wellbeing Act, to strengthen performance, leadership and accountability throughout the mental health and wellbeing system.
The new Commission will report on performance, quality and safety, elevate leadership of people with lived experience, promote the role of families, carers and supporters, monitor the implementation of the Royal Commission's recommendations and have powers to initiate its own inquiries and provide advice to ministers.
The Mental Health and Wellbeing Commission will provide state-wide oversight of the mental health and wellbeing system and hold the government to account for ensuring it improves people's experiences and uphold the rights of people with lived experience and their families, carers and supporters.
A Chair Commissioner and three Commissioners roles are being created and as part of the selection process and at least one of these positions will have a person with lived experience of mental illness or psychological distress, and one who identifies as a family member, carer or supporter.
Early recruitment of the Commissioners will support planning and consultation before the new Act begins. The legislation contains new rights-based objectives and principles that will drive the highest possible standard of mental health and wellbeing care for Victorians.
The Victorian Budget 2022/23 provided funding of $1.3 billion for mental health and wellbeing, building on last year's record investment of $3.8 billion - the largest single investment in mental health in Victoria's history.
For more information on the appointment of Commissioners for the Mental Health and Wellbeing Commission and to apply, visit careers.vic.gov.au.
As stated by Minister for Mental Health Gabrielle Williams
"We're searching for the best and brightest leaders to fill these four vital roles driving positive change across the mental health and wellbeing system."
"This new Commission will be tasked with ensuring our new mental health and wellbeing system is one that improves everyone's experience, driving system wide cultural change and leading the way to reduce stigma."
