- Published:
- Wednesday 26 August 2026
Labor is strengthening the leadership at Victoria's first dedicated public youth mental health service.
Minister for Mental Health Ingrid Stitt today announced the appointment of Paris Aristotle to the Board of the Parkville Youth Mental Health and Wellbeing Service (PYMHWS).
Mr Aristotle is a respected leader with more than 40 years’ experience across the community and health sectors.
He is currently the CEO of Foundation House which provides trauma-based support for young people from refugee backgrounds.
As Victoria’s first public youth mental health service, PYMHWS provides specialist care for young people with complex needs.
The service supports around 1,000 young people each year with multidisciplinary teams including allied health workers, nurses, psychiatrists and doctors providing tailored mental health and wellbeing support.
Mr Aristotle’s decades of experience will be a valuable addition to the Board as it works to improve care for young Victorians.
His addition follows the recent appointment of experienced health sector leader Cath Bowtell as Chair of PYMHWS.
Together they will help guide the service as it expands support for young Victorians with complex mental health needs.
This work is part of the Labor Government’s broader focus on early-intervention – connecting young people with the supports, opportunities and community connections that help them thrive.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Mental Health Ingrid Stitt
“Every young Victorian should get the right mental health care when they need it, and we’re strengthening services to make that happen.”
“Mr Aristotle’s appointment will strengthen PYMHWS’s leadership and improve care for young Victorians with complex needs.”
Quote attributable to Parkville Youth Mental Health and Wellbeing Service Chairperson Cath Bowtell
"Our focus as a Board remains on supporting PYMHWS to provide safe, high-quality and youth-centred care, while continuing to strengthen the service for the young people, families and communities who rely on it. Paris shares that commitment, and I look forward to working with him."
Quote attributable to Parkville Youth Mental Health and Wellbeing Service Board Member Paris Aristotle
"I look forward to serving on the Board and supporting PYMHWS in its mission to help young people receive the care and support they need to thrive."