Victoria Minister for Mental Health Mary Wooldridge

Minister Launches Consultation On Mental Health Research

Victor P Taffa

Victorians with a mental illness, carers, researchers and treatment and support providers are being invited to participate in a consultation process as part of the Coalition Government’s $10 Million Mental Illness Research Fund.

Mental Health Minister Mary Wooldridge said the consultation would help shape the priority research areas to be funded.

“The Victorian Coalition Government is committed to ensuring Victoria stays at the forefront of innovation.” Ms. Wooldridge said.

“Our $10 Million fund will further strengthen our position and reputation as a national leader in mental health care.”

“The Mental Illness Research Fund will support a small number of significant grants to facilitate high quality, collaborative and innovative research, which can translate into real improvements for Victorians with a mental illness.”

Ms. Wooldridge said an expert advisory committee, chaired by Professor Bruce Tonge and supported by Neurosciences Victoria, would provide advice on all aspects of the fund.

“The advisory committee will initially identify the strategic research priorities, in consultation with the mental health sector and research agencies.” Ms. Wooldridge said.

“The consultation process will highlight areas that would benefit from further research and assist in focusing the Fund’s investment.”

“The research funded will provide evidence to support major improvements and innovations to our mental healthcare system.” Ms. Wooldridge said.

The consultation process, which will run until 5 December 2011, is through completion of a survey that can be accessed at:

http://www.health.vic.gov.au/mentalhealth/reformstrategy/mi-research-fund.htm