About the Mental Health and Wellbeing Act (for LGBTIQ+ Victorians)

In Victoria, we’re working hard to improve mental health and wellbeing services for everyone, including lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans and gender diverse, intersex and queer Victorians.

This will help every member of the LGBTIQ+ community access the care and support they need, when they need it, and in a way that works for them.  

Mental health and wellbeing services should be inclusive, and accessible to people of any gender, sexuality, or intersectional identity.

If you’re accessing mental health and wellbeing services in Victoria, you have a right to feel safe, and to have a service that understands you, and treats you with respect.

From September 2023, a new mental health and wellbeing law comes into effect. This law is based on human rights, and supports choice, so you will have more say in the kind of treatment and support you get.

You can also choose a family member, friend, carer, or any person who supports you, to help you make important decisions about your care.

Mental health and wellbeing service providers across Victoria must follow these laws. You have a right to accessible mental health and wellbeing services, free from discrimination. And to have your voice heard if you feel you’ve been treated unfairly.

And if you need an advocate, someone to speak or act on your behalf, or if you need a translator or an interpreter - free, confidential services are available.

For more information, visit our website - https://www.health.vic.gov.au/mental-health-and-wellbeing-act