Tell politicians to SaveVicHealth
Every one in Victoria, from the bush to the beach to Bourke Street, deserves the chance of a healthy, connected life.
VicHealth works best when it’s independent. Independence is exactly what allows VicHealth to work beyond short-term political cycles, partner deeply with local communities, and lead long-term strategies that keep people well.
The Premier’s decision to dismantle VicHealth and absorb it into the Department of Health will worsen the health of thousands of Victorians. If VicHealth loses independence, it loses impact. Victoria is a global leader in prevention because for 40 years we’ve had VicHealth: an independent, trusted, community-driven health promotion agency that improves people’s wellbeing, reduces preventable illness like cancer and heart disease, and eases pressure on hospitals. Large departments that are more focused on emergencies cannot replicate that agility, trust, or long-term community support.
Your voice matters, and it’s essential that you use it. Take action today and let Premier Jacinta Allan and your local member know that you want them to withdraw the plan to dismantle VicHealth, and maintain VicHealth as a fully funded, independent health promotion agency.
STEP 1: Use this email template to draft your letter for the Premier, or your local member.
STEP 2: Email your letter to jacinta.allan@parliament.vic.gov.au or via this web form.
STEP 3: Email your local member. Find their contact details here.
Never contacted a politician before? Here’s an introduction.
Take an extra step
Broaden your reach: After you contact your local MP, contact other key Ministers, for example, the Premier, Health Minister, and Treasurer.
Engage locally: Check if there are other MPs representing your district or region (Upper and Lower House members) and share your message with them too. Tailor your message – If you discover something interesting about VicHealth’s role in your community or relevant to your MP, follow up to let the MP know.
Track responses: Note what each MP says in response to your communication, and their social media. If the situation changes or their position shifts, follow up to keep the conversation active.
Don’t let silence stop you: Remember MPs take holidays and juggle lots of priorities. If you don’t hear back, re send your email, make a phone call, or drop by their office in mid January to reactivate communication.
Use your phone: Electorate office contact details are public. A call can cut through more than an email. See if you can organise a time to meet and talk through the need to keep VicHealth independent and fully funded, and what it means to you and your community.
Why contact politicians in both houses of the Victorian Parliament?
Becuase parliament comprises two houses.
Legislative Assembly (Lower House): 88 members elected from single member districts. The Assembly forms government and has the power to initiate and pass the state budget (formally called appropriation bills).
Legislative Council (Upper House): 40 members elected from eight regions – meaning you could have five MPs representing your region who may be in different parties. The Council reviews legislation and can amend or reject bills.
For most legislation to pass, both houses must agree.