The Allan government's decision to abolish the 'lived experience' test for mental health leaders has sparked concern in the industry, with many fearing a step backward in progress. The restructuring of two bodies established by the royal commission has raised red flags, as some worry that oversight powers are being dismantled. Clare Davies, CEO of Self Help Addiction Resource Centre (SHARC), wrote to Premier Jacinta Allan to express her opposition to the commission losing three of its four commissioners. This move, part of the government's Silver review to cut costs, also removes one of the two chief executives from the Victorian Collaborative Centre for Mental Health and Wellbeing, eliminating the need for leadership positions to be filled by those with mental health challenges. Davies argues that this change will compromise quality and contradict the royal commission's recommendations, which emphasized the importance of lived experience in reform. Health and Community Services Union (HACSU) secretary Paul Healey called it a betrayal, claiming the system is now worse than before the 2021 Royal Commission. The legislation also clarifies the commission's monitoring and reporting functions, limiting its oversight to responding to complaints and focusing on system outcomes rather than community outcomes. The minister will now set the commission's objectives annually and restrict its data access to health services. Despite the government's denial, the changes have raised concerns about the commission's capacity to oversee progress and track the impact of funding. The Victorian Mental Illness Awareness Council (VMIAC) and Tandem Carers are deeply worried about the lack of collaboration and consultation in the overhaul, questioning the government's commitment to the royal commission's vision. Mental Health Victoria's CEO, Phillipa Thomas, also expressed uncertainty about the funding's impact and the tracking of progress. However, a Victorian government spokesman defended the changes, emphasizing the focus on strengthening leadership and accountability, and maintaining the commission's role in safeguarding rights and resolving complaints.
