Victorians experiencing mental illness, including those in Werribee, will have access to better treatment, care and support closer to loved ones, under recommendations handed down by the final report from Royal Commission into Victoria’s Mental health System.

The Commission today delivered its final report – a blueprint for delivering a new mental health system for all Victorians, including those in Werribee – the state’s biggest social reform in a generation.

Welcoming the report, Member for Werribee Tim Pallas said the Andrews Labor Government recognised the profound failures of the current system had sadly cost lives, committing to implement every one of the report’s recommendations.

Australia’s first ever Royal Commission into Mental Health has provided the government and community with the plan to build a new mental health system, from the ground up, and with expertise from those with lived experience.

A system that provides people with the care they need early on – before they reach the emergency department and before it’s too late.

There are no quick fix solutions. While it will take time for the government to fully consider the report’s vital recommendations, work has already begun on implementing those laid out in the Royal Commission’s interim report. The 2020-21 Victorian State Budget includes $868.6 million to focus on priority areas such as acute mental health beds, suicide prevention, Aboriginal social and emotional wellbeing, and support for the mental health workforce.

But we know much more needs to be done to make a mental health system every Victorian deserves – and that is what we will do.

If you or someone you know is in crisis or needs support call Lifeline on 13 11 14 or Beyond Blue on 1300 224 636.

Quotes attributable to Member for Werribee Tim Pallas

“Mental health impacts all of us in Werribee. If it’s not our own direct experience, it’s people we know and love.”

“This year we’ve lived through a global pandemic and all the stresses that have come with it. Now, more than ever, we need a new mental health system for all Victorians.”

“I’m proud to be part of the Andrews Labor Government and delivering this new mental health system from the ground up, for people across Werribee and Victoria. This will change and save lives.”