Department of Health

Chief Psychiatrist

The Chief Psychiatrist is an independent statutory officer with powers and responsibilities to uphold quality and safety in Victoria’s mental health and wellbeing system.

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About the Chief Psychiatrist

The Chief Psychiatrist upholds quality and safety in Victoria’s mental health and wellbeing system.

Principles in the Mental Health and Wellbeing Act and the Chief Psychiatrist's guidelines

Mental health and wellbeing services have a responsibility to provide treatment and care that embodies the Mental Health and Wellbeing Act 2022 and Chief Psychiatrist’s guidelines.

Governance and committees

The Office of the Chief Psychiatrist is part of a governance architecture that provides oversight and support to improve the quality and safety of mental health care and treatment in Victoria.

Reporting obligations for clinical mental health and wellbeing services

Mental health and wellbeing services must report specific clinical practices and incidents to the Office of the Chief Psychiatrist.

Mental health and wellbeing support

Find out who to contact if you or someone you know is facing mental health and wellbeing challenges.

Office of the Chief Psychiatrist's reform activities and news

The Mental Health and Wellbeing Act 2022 redefines the role of the Chief Psychiatrist. It broadens jurisdiction to additional settings and practices of clinical mental health.

Resources and reports

Resources and reports on quality and safety in clinical mental health service provision.

Chief psychiatrist guidelines

The Chief Psychiatrist's guidelines contain specialist information and advice on clinical practice in mental health and wellbeing services.

Reviewed 04 December 2023

Health.vic

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