The Victorian Government on 4 December 2025 announced it would fold the independent health promotion foundation VicHealth – the world’s first body of its kind – into the Victorian Department of Health.
This is a shortsighted decision which makes no sense, and will cost the state both in monetary terms, and in worse health for its people. Reasons why include that inevitably the department will prioritise acute care over prevention and promotion efforts that stop people getting sick in the first place.
VicHealth has achieved many successes since its creation in 1987. Here’s a timeline of its first 30 years highlighting some of the many ways it has helped improve the health and well being of people across the state.
The Public Health Assocation of Australia, the country’s peak body for public health, is helping our allies and supporters across Victoria and beyond to get the Premier Jacinta Allan’s Labor Government to reverse its decision. Your feedback is welcome.
