Department of Health
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Public health


Public health legislation, policies and guidelines aim to promote health and wellbeing and to prevent disease in the Victorian community.

Public health strategies aim to promote healthier eating and active living; reduce the harm caused by smoking, alcohol and drug use and reduce the risk posed by potentially dangerous substances to ensure safe environments for all Victorians.

Women's Health and Wellbeing Program

To bridge the gap in women's healthcare, the Department of Health is leading the delivery of a program of work to change the way women’s health issues are treated.

Medicines and Poisons Regulation

Victorian legislation ensures that medicines and poisons are used safely. Healthcare professionals must be aware of the relevant laws for their occupation.

Cemeteries and crematoria

Information about public cemeteries, crematoria and cemetery trusts in Victoria for various stakeholders.

Environmental health in Victoria

In Victoria, the department has an important role in protecting the health of Victorians from the potential health effects of environmental hazards.

Food safety

All Victorian food businesses must follow the food safety regulations for their class of food premises.

Immunisation

Victorian information about vaccination for children, adolescents and adults.

Infectious diseases: guidelines and advice

Guidelines and advice for health professionals on infectious diseases. Includes management and control, notification requirements, and surveillance reports.

Population health systems

Evidence gathering, statistical data and evaluations are important tools for planning preventative health and wellbeing measures.

Population screening

Screening programs include the national cervical, breast and bowel cancer screening programs, newborn bloodspot screening, prenatal screening and infant hearing screening.

Preventive health

Disease prevention and early detection targeting specific areas such as obesity, physical activity, sexual health and heart disease.

Radiation

We administer the Radiation Act 2005. Users and managers of radiation practices are licensed under this Act.

Tobacco reforms

Anti-smoking laws and policies have contributed to a continuing decline of smoking rates across Victoria.

Water quality and safety

The department protects the public by safeguarding drinking water, facilitating the safe use of alternative water supplies and ensuring healthy swimming.

Local Public Health Units

Local Public Health Units support Victoria’s public health strategy within local communities, including prevention and population health, health protection and public health response activities.

Child Safe Standards

All Victorian health organisations that provide services or facilities to children are required by law to comply with the Child Safe Standards.

Coronavirus (COVID-19)

Keep up-to-date with COVID-19 information for the health sector, including health services and professionals and providers.

Disease information and advice

A-Z list of blue book diseases with descriptions, notification requirements, school exclusions and management guidelines.

Reviewed 19 November 2024

Health.vic

In this section

  • Notify a condition now
    Prescribed conditions and micro-organisms that are to be notified to the Department of Health.
  • Food businesses
    What you need to know if you are opening or operating a food business in Victoria.

Chief Health Officer 

  • Chief Health Officer
    Victoria's Chief Health Officer acts as the government's primary media spokesperson on matters relating to the control of disease and promotion of health.

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