The Allan Labor Government has unveiled a 10-year plan to make Victoria’s mental health and wellbeing system more inclusive and responsive to people from all backgrounds.
Minister for Mental Health Ingrid Stitt launched the Diverse Communities Mental Health and Wellbeing Framework 2025–2035, describing it as a roadmap for a system that better serves multicultural and multifaith Victorians, LGBTIQA+ people, and those with disability.
“Everyone deserves access to safe, responsive and inclusive mental health care—no matter who they are or where they live,” Minister Stitt said. “This framework will help us build a mental health and wellbeing system that reflects and respects Victoria’s diversity.”
Developed with input from more than 500 community members, organisations and peak bodies, including people with lived and living experience, the Framework sets out the state’s long-term vision for equitable mental health services.
Its accompanying Blueprint for Action 2025–28 outlines the first steps, focusing on improving system responsiveness, strengthening the capacity of organisations that support diverse communities, and tackling stigma and discrimination. It also highlights the need to promote mental wellbeing, prevent suicide, and ensure diverse communities are represented in leadership and decision-making roles across the sector.
The Blueprint will be updated every three years to reflect community feedback, track progress, and ensure alignment with broader government strategies and reforms.
Backing the Framework, the Government has committed $27.2 million to community mental health services, supporting organisations such as the Asylum Seeker Resource Centre, Cabrini Outreach, and Foundation House. A further $4.8 million has been allocated to support Switchboard’s Rainbow Door service for LGBTIQA+ Victorians, alongside dedicated funding for mental health training for Auslan and Deaf interpreters.
Minister Stitt said the Framework delivers on Recommendation 34 of the Royal Commission into Victoria’s Mental Health System. “We’re acting on the Royal Commission’s findings to make sure all Victorians, whatever their background, can access the support they need close to home,” she said.
The Framework aims to create lasting change by embedding diversity and inclusion into every level of Victoria’s mental health and wellbeing system over the next decade.
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