September 2009

Restructure to deliver better services

Premier John Brumby has announced a major restructure of health and community services to Victorian communities and families.

Mr Brumby announced that a new Department of Health would oversee all health services, mental health, aged care and preventative health in Victoria, to deliver greater accountability in hospitals.

‘I firmly believe that these changes will help deliver better services to Victorian families and communities.

‘We are at a crucial juncture in health and hospital services in Victoria and Australia.

‘Council of Australian Government reforms are lifting standards in our hospitals and reducing waiting times.

‘A new Department of Health—focusing on hospital performance, mental health and prevention—means Victorians can derive greater benefits from these reforms.’

Mr Brumby said the health and human services task had grown significantly since the 1990s, accounting for nearly $4 in every $10 the State Government invests in services, employing around 13,000 staff and more than 80,000 through its agencies.

‘These reforms are designed to increase the accountability, performance and focus of our health system, our family and community services as well as social housing.’

Mr Brumby said the new Department of Health would also better address the needs of Victoria’s ageing population.

‘By 2030, there will be more than 1.4 million Victorians over the age of 65.

‘The new Department of Health will focus on ensuring older Victorians can access the services they need.’

The Premier has appointed Department of Human Services Secretary Fran Thorn as Secretary of the new Department of Health.

Minister for Health Daniel Andrews remains coordinating Minister for this Department.

Mr Brumby also announced a new Department of Human Services would oversee services for children, youth and families, housing, disability, concessions and bushfire recovery.

Gill Callister is the new Secretary of the Department of Human Services.

The Minister for Community Services Lisa Neville is coordinating Minister for the new Department of Human Services.

‘The unfortunate reality is that cases of family breakdown are becoming more frequent and more complex.

‘A stand-alone department is now needed to address rapidly growing demand on health and community services sector,’ Mr Brumby said.

‘With a growing population and strong birth rates, it is a critical time for Government to ensure we can provide support to vulnerable families and children.

‘Central to this will be addressing the workforce challenges and ensure we have the best and brightest case workers.

‘Across Australia, we are also facing a workforce challenge in recruiting enough case workers for vulnerable children.

‘Addressing this recruitment issue and providing greater clarity around decision making will be key priorities for the new DHS.’