Welcome to the Department of Health
The Victorian Department of Health's objective is to enhance and protect the health and wellbeing of all Victorians.
We work with the community to provide better access to health, aged care and mental health and drug services. We do this through managing the public hospital system, developing health infrastructure in rural and metropolitan Victoria, pursuing opportunities for partnership with the primary care sector and other governments, public health interventions, and implementing major health initiatives such as the Victorian Cancer Action Plan. We also encourage Victorians to improve their health through preventative health initiatives and education programs.
Latest News
Semi-dried tomatoes
10 Feb 2010The emergency order made by the Chief Health Officer under the Food Act in November 2009 has expired. An update about semi-dried tomatoes is available on the Department of Health's Food Safety website.
New online food safety learning program
9 Feb 2009The Department of Health's Food Safety and Regulation Unit has developed a free online food safety learning program to better inform food handlers and all Victorians about how to handle food safely.
$407.5 million Box Hill Hospital redevelopment
10 Dec 2009The Premier, John Brumby, has announced a $407.5 redevelopment of the Box Hill Hospital. The redevelopment will deliver new emergency and surgery facilities and a dedicated precinct for children’s and women’s health services.
Victoria's Cancer Action Plan
20 Nov 2009Victoria's Cancer Action Plan 2008 – 2011 aims to increase the five-year survival rate by 10 per cent by 2015. This means an extra 2,000 lives saved. Find out more about the plan and ways to reduce your risk of getting cancer.
Victorian Public Healthcare Awards
15 Sep 2009The 2009 Victorian Public Healthcare Awards honour the individuals, teams and services who are committed to finding better ways of doing things, so that the best possible care is provided to their community.