Public health legislation, policies and guidelines aim to promote health and wellbeing and to prevent disease in the Victorian community.
Public health strategies aim to promote healthier eating and active living; reduce the harm caused by smoking, alcohol and drug use and reduce the risk posed by potentially dangerous substances to ensure safe environments for all Victorians.
Women's Health and Wellbeing Program
To bridge the gap in women's healthcare, the Department of Health is leading the delivery of a program of work to change the way women’s health issues are treated.
Medicines and Poisons Regulation
Victorian legislation ensures that medicines and poisons are used safely. Healthcare professionals must be aware of the relevant laws for their occupation.
Cemeteries and crematoria
Information about public cemeteries, crematoria and cemetery trusts in Victoria for various stakeholders.
Environmental health in Victoria
In Victoria, the department has an important role in protecting the health of Victorians from the potential health effects of environmental hazards.
Food safety
All Victorian food businesses must follow the food safety regulations for their class of food premises.
Immunisation
Victorian information about vaccination for children, adolescents and adults.
Infectious diseases: guidelines and advice
Guidelines and advice for health professionals on infectious diseases. Includes management and control, notification requirements, and surveillance reports.
Population health systems
Evidence gathering, statistical data and evaluations are important tools for planning preventative health and wellbeing measures.
Population screening
Screening programs include the national cervical, breast and bowel cancer screening programs, newborn bloodspot screening, prenatal screening and infant hearing screening.
Preventive health
Disease prevention and early detection targeting specific areas such as obesity, physical activity, sexual health and heart disease.
Radiation
We administer the Radiation Act 2005. Users and managers of radiation practices are licensed under this Act.
Tobacco reforms
Anti-smoking laws and policies have contributed to a continuing decline of smoking rates across Victoria.
Water quality and safety
The department protects the public by safeguarding drinking water, facilitating the safe use of alternative water supplies and ensuring healthy swimming.
Local Public Health Units
Local Public Health Units support Victoria’s public health strategy within local communities, including prevention and population health, health protection and public health response activities.
Coronavirus (COVID-19)
Keep up-to-date with COVID-19 information for the health sector, including health services and professionals and providers.
Disease information and advice
A-Z list of blue book diseases with descriptions, notification requirements, school exclusions and management guidelines.
Updated