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A transformed mental health system with human rights at its heart

The Victorian Equal Opportunity and Human Rights Commission has today welcomed the final report of the Royal Commission into Victoria’s Mental Health System and the blueprint it lays out for transformational change.

“The calibre of this final report is a testament to the years-long, dedicated advocacy of so many people with lived experience, along with those who deliver Victoria’s mental health services,” said Commissioner Kristen Hilton. “Their efforts, combined with the thorough and excellent work of those conducting the Royal Commission have produced an ambitious reform agenda that, if implemented, will completely transform the way mental health and wellbeing support and care is provided in Victoria.”

The final report makes 65 recommendations, including that the new system be underpinned by human rights.

“We are especially pleased to see that upholding human rights and addressing stigma and discrimination have been identified as key themes in many of the Report’s recommendations,” said Commissioner Hilton. “We know from our research and investigations, as well as the stories we hear through our complaints and enquiries services that stigma and discrimination both contribute to poorer mental health, and are too often experienced by those who are living with mental illness.”

The Commission particularly welcomes commitments to:

  • reduce the use and duration of compulsory treatment, and work towards eliminating the use of seclusion and restraint;
  • address stigma and discrimination, including in the workplace
  • ensure that people with lived experience are in key roles within the mental health system; and
  • improve access to legal protection from mental health discrimination, including by supporting consumers to exercise their rights.

“The Commission warmly congratulates all those involved in undertaking this work, and commends the Government’s commitment to implement the recommendations contained within the final report,” said Commissioner Hilton. “We look forward to working with consumers, service providers and the new Mental Health Commissioners to ensure that the reforms in this report can be realised and people experiencing mental illness can live with dignity and respect.”

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Address
Melbourne Victoria 3000

General enquiries
enquiries@veohrc.vic.gov.au

Enquiry line
1300 292 153 or (03) 9032 3583

Interpreters
1300 152 494

NRS Voice Relay
1300 555 727 then use 1300 292 153

Media enquiries
1300 292 153

The Victorian Equal Opportunity and Human Rights Commission acknowledges that we work on the traditional lands of the Wurundjeri people of the Kulin Nation. We also work remotely and serve communities on the lands of other Traditional Custodians.

We pay our respects to their Elders past and present.

The Victorian Equal Opportunity and Human Rights Commission recognises the injustice resulting from the colonial invasion and occupation of First Peoples’ territories and the Yoorrook Justice Commission’s findings of genocide, crimes against humanity and denial of freedoms.