Because Thousands Spoke Up, VicHealth Will Be Debated in Parliament — What’s Next?

Something important is about to happen. Next week, the Victorian Parliament will debate the proposal to abolish VicHealth - a moment made possible by thousands of people like you who signed petitions and spoke up earlier this year.

This debate is one of the clearest opportunities for MPs to publicly recognise VicHealth’s contribution to healthier, more connected communities.

It’s also a chance for supporters like you to show just how much VicHealth matters.

What we’ve achieved together
VicHealth continues its work: Minister for Health Harriet Shing confirmed that funding for 2026–27 has been renewed. VicHealth is still delivering important prevention programs, community partnerships and local initiatives across Victoria. You can follow updates at vichealth.vic.gov.au and on VicHealth’s social channels. Meanwhile Coalition, Greens and cross-bench MPs continue to speak publicly about VicHealth’s importance and value to Victorians.

Support continues to build

• Local councils across Victoria - and the MAV State Council - have passed motions supporting VicHealth’s independence
• Labor members expressed strong support for retaining VicHealth at the State Labor Conference
• The Public Health Association of Australia has made saving VicHealth a top Victorian election priority.

Our movement keeps growing

• More than 5,860 people have signed this petition
• 3,889 people signed a Parliamentary petition triggering a debate
• Thousands now follow Friends of VicHealth on LinkedIn and Instagram

Every signature and conversation shows how deeply Victorians value independent health promotion.

What’s happening next:
On Wednesday 29 July, Parliament is expected to debate the proposal to abolish VicHealth. This is a key moment for MPs to speak about VicHealth’s impact - and for supporters across Victoria to show that this issue matters to people everywhere. 

How you can be involved:
If you can get to Melbourne: Join supporters on the steps of Parliament House, Spring Street Melbourne, at 4:30pm on Wednesday 29 July. Wear something colourful and joyful: fruit‑and‑veg brights, creativity, movement, diversity and inclusion. Register for updates: https://forms.gle/DZddg81R66YVmPrz8  - and if you do come along, say hello!

If you’re elsewhere in Victoria (or can’t attend):

• Share why VicHealth matters to your community on social media using #SaveVicHealth
• Tell friends and local organisations about the debate and gathering in Melbourne
• Follow Friends of VicHealth on LinkedIn and Instagram for updates
• Let us know if you’d like to help with our pre‑election community engagement (use the event registration form to let us know)

Every action, big or small, strengthens the message that VicHealth’s independence matters to Victorians and people across the country and the world. 

Thank you for everything you’ve already done as part of this collective effort to Keep VicHealth independent and strong and so that it can continue its important work to help us all enjoy healthier lives!

-Friends of VicHealth