The 2026 update to the Department of Health Strategic Plan 2023–27 comes at a time of significant change across Victoria's health system. Expectations of the health system continue to evolve. Patient needs are becoming more complex, including due to ageing populations and people living with multiple chronic conditions. Demand for hospitals and urgent care remains high and, at the same time, patients are increasingly accessing virtual care.
As we enter the final year of this strategic plan, our vision for Victorians to be the healthiest people in the world remains the foundation for how we improve care, strengthen the system and deliver better health outcomes for all Victorians. Achieving this vision means looking beyond treating illness alone. It requires us to think about prevention, reduce inequalities, deliver safe and connected care, and build a sustainable health system.
This plan continues our focus on keeping people healthy and safe in the community. Through our Local Public Health Units, harm reduction initiatives and continued investment in public health protection, we are strengthening the systems and services that keep communities safe while supporting Victorians to make informed decisions about their health and wellbeing.
We know people achieve better outcomes when care is accessible, connected and delivered closer to where they live. That is why we continue to expand virtual care, community-based services and community pharmacy care, helping more Victorians receive timely support outside hospital settings. These initiatives are making it easier for people to access care earlier while reducing pressure on emergency departments and ambulance services.
Innovation continues to drive improvement across our health system. We are progressing major reforms in mental health and wellbeing, specialist care and planned surgery, strengthening maternal and child health and continuing to develop and progress digital capability and new models of care that improve access, quality and patient experience.
Improving Aboriginal health and wellbeing remains central to this plan. We will continue working with Aboriginal communities, Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisations and the Aboriginal health sector to strengthen self-determination and cultural safety. Treaty and truth-telling continue to challenge us to address inequity and build a health system that better reflects the strength, knowledge and aspirations of Aboriginal communities.
The future of healthcare depends on stronger collaboration across the system. The Local Health Service Networks are helping health services collaborate better and plan more effectively and have delivered more integrated and coordinated care closer to home.
A capable, supported and sustainable workforce remains the foundation of our health system. We are continuing to deliver Victoria's 10-year Health Workforce Strategy, grow critical workforces and strengthen capability across metropolitan, rural and regional Victoria. By supporting workforce wellbeing, safety and development, we are investing in the people who make quality care possible every day.
As demand grows and community needs become more complex, stewardship of Victoria’s health system matters more than ever. Strengthening financial sustainability, improving cyber security, embracing digital transformation and reducing our environmental impact are all critical to ensuring our health system remains safe, resilient and sustainable into the future. Through careful stewardship today, we can continue delivering high-quality care for generations to come.
I want to thank everyone across the department, our health services, community organisations, Aboriginal partners, the mental health and wellbeing sector, health professionals, researchers and the many others who contribute to the health of Victorians. Realising our vision would not be possible without Victoria’s highly valued health workforce, who bring skill, commitment and compassion to some of life’s most important moments.
This plan is a shared commitment to delivery. It asks us to continue putting people and communities at the centre of everything we do, to work across boundaries, to learn from evidence and experience, and to continuously improve so we can meet the needs of Victorians today and into the future.
Together, we are building a system that helps people stay well, supports them earlier and cares for them closer to home, so that Victorians can be the healthiest people in the world.
Jenny Atta PSM
Secretary
Department of Health
Updated