Premier

Strengthening Our Mental Health Workforce

04 August 2016

Work is underway to ensure Victoria has a skilled, adaptable and available mental health workforce that meets the needs of Victorians with a mental illness and their families.

Minister for Mental Health Martin Foley today released the Victorian Mental Health Workforce Strategy which outlines the Andrews Labor Government’s plan to attract, develop and retain the best possible mental health workforce.

The strategy focuses on how we best equip and skill our workforce to help those in most need such as Aboriginal mental health, rural and regional mental health services.

The cornerstone of the strategy is the statewide Centre for Mental Health Workforce Learning and Development.

The Centre will work to improve access to learning and development opportunities to build the skills of mental health workers, in areas such as the ability to respond to diversity, complex needs and trauma.

The strategy outlines the Labor Government’s plan to build safe and supportive work environments and cultures.

It will also build the capacity for all workers across government, including the broader health networks, education, justice and family services to respond to mental health issues in the community.

The Labor Government thanks all stakeholders including service providers, unions, professional associations, peak bodies and most importantly the workforce, consumers and carers.

The strategy can be downloaded at www.mentalhealthplan.vic.gov.auExternal Link

Quotes attributable to Mental Health Minister Martin Foley

“Our workforce strategy is a key element to our 10 year mental health plan and prepares Victoria to have the most equipped workers that meet the needs of Victorians with a mental illness.”

“We want to ensure those in need get the support they deserve, that’s why we made a record investment towards suicide prevention and we will now work across government to ensure we better respond to mental health issues.”

“I want to thank the entire sector for working with us on this vital plan for the future.”

Reviewed 19 August 2020

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