About the Department
Page content: what we do | our portfolios | our divisions | our regions | organisational chart
The Department of Human Services is Victoria's largest state government department.
We cover the responsibilities of the Ministers for Health, Mental Health, Senior Victorians, Community Services and Housing.
We directly employ more than 13,000 people and fund organisations such as hospitals, aged care facilities, ambulance services and community service agencies that collectively employ more than 80,000 people.
What we do
We plan, fund and deliver health, community and housing services in line with the government's vision for making Victoria a stronger, more caring and innovative state.
Our portfolios
Health
- Health care services through the public hospital system, community health services and ambulance services
- Health promotion and protection through emergency management, public health and related preventative services, education and regulation
Mental Health
- A range of alcohol and drug prevention and treatment services
- The public mental health service system consisting of clinical services and psychiatric disability rehabilitation and support services
Housing
- Providing more and better affordable, rental housing
- Providing more housing for people who are homeless as well as addressing the causes of homelessness
- Providing training and employment opportunities to help public housing tenants transition out of public housing
Aged Care
- Residential and rehabilitation care for older people, along with support and assistance to enable them to remain independently in their own homes
Children
- Victoria's statutory responsibilities such as child protection and youth justice
Disability
- Services that provide support for Victorians with intellectual, physical, sensory and dual disabilities, neurological impairments and acquired brain injury
Our divisions
Nine divisions share the department's responsibilities for developing strategic priorities, implementing policy, and funding and monitoring service delivery. For more information visit DHS Divisions.
Our regions
The Department of Human Services delivers services through Victoria’s eight geographical regions. For more information visit DHS Regions.
Organisational chart
Download Department of Human Services organisational chart (pdf, 151kb) (updated 6 June 2007) (Download help)