Department of Health

Office of the Chief Psychiatrist's reform activities and news

The Mental Health and Wellbeing Act 2022 commences on 1 September 2023.

It redefines the role of the Chief Psychiatrist, broadening their jurisdiction to additional settings and practices of clinical mental health.

This includes new powers and responsibilities to:

These changes were recommended by the Royal Commission into Victoria’s Mental Health System. They build a governance architecture that places consumers at the centre and supports the workforce to deliver safe and high-quality treatment and care.

Compliance implications for service providers

There are important compliance implications arising from the changes.

From 1 September 2023, clinical mental health and wellbeing services will have new reporting obligations to the Office of the Chief Psychiatrist. They will also be required to adhere to an expanded set of rights-based principles emphasising supported decision-making, dignity and autonomy.

The documents listed below outline these changes. They also highlight the compliance expectations that remain unchanged in the areas of clinical practice overseen by the Chief Psychiatrist.

This information will assist clinical mental health services prepare for the new Act’s commencement on 1 September 2023.

Reviewed 15 September 2023

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