The Mental Health and Wellbeing Act 2022 commenced 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:
- oversee forensic mental health and wellbeing services
- regulate chemical restraint
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.
Factsheet: Advice on co-ordination for mental health patient transport and community crisis responses
This factsheet provides guidance for mental health clinicians in designated mental health services (DMHSs).
Office of the Chief Psychiatrist Seclusion and restraint report 2020–24
A comprehensive account of restrictive intervention use in Victoria, including explanations of trends and variations in different locations and periods.
Understanding and reporting chemical restraint
Practical guidance for prescribing clinicians on what constitutes chemical restraint and when it needs to be reported to the Chief Psychiatrist under the Mental Health and Wellbeing Act 2022.
White paper - on the principles of mental health risk assessment
This paper outlines information on the principles of mental health risk assessment for use by clinical mental health and wellbeing services in Victoria.
Reporting restrictive interventions in emergency departments and urgent care centres
New compliance requirements for staff working in emergency departments and urgent care centres focussed on documenting and reporting restrictive interventions.
Updated