Better Health Channel
betterhealth.vic.gov.au Department of Health
betterhealth.vic.gov.au Department of Health

Description

The Mental Health and Wellbeing Commission is an independent statutory authority established under the Mental Health and Wellbeing Act 2022.

The Mental Health and Wellbeing Commission promotes, supports and protects the rights of consumers, families, carers and supporters. It holds government to account for the performance, quality and safety of Victoria’s mental health and wellbeing system.

Services provided

  • Listens to and works with people to resolve complaints about public mental health services in Victoria, including issues such as access, treatment and care.
  • Helps people to speak with public mental health services directly about their concerns and complaints.
  • Helps support Victorian public mental health services to respond effectively to concerns and complaints.

Eligibility

Any person who is genuinely concerned about someone’s experience with a public mental health service in Victoria can make a complaint.

How to access

Contact the Mental Health and Wellbeing CommissionExternal Link if you have a complaint:

The National Relay Service (NRS)External Link is available to help callers who are d/Deaf, or find it hard to hear or speak to hearing people on the phone.

The Translating and Interpreting Service (TIS National)External Link is available (24 hours, 7 days) for callers who speak other languages. Call 131 450.

If you would prefer to discuss your health or treatment in a language other than English, an interpreter can be arranged for you at no cost.

Interpreter services are also available free of charge for people with a speech or hearing impairment.

Costs

  • The Mental Health and Wellbeing Commission provides a free service.

Tip

You can contact the Mental Health and Wellbeing Commission to discuss your concerns and options – they may be able to help you raise your concern with the mental health service without making a formal complaint.

Important

  • You have the right to speak up and to have your concerns heard.
  • If your complaint is about someone else’s experience, the Mental Health and Wellbeing Commission may need to seek their consent.
  • The Mental Health and Wellbeing Commission is independent and separate from mental health services and the Department of Health.