Member for Gippsland East, Tim Bull, is inviting individuals, organisations and businesses in the region, which have an interest in workforce participation by people living with a mental illness, to make a submission to a Victorian Parliamentary inquiry.

“The inquiry, which is being conducted by the Family and Community Development Committee, is part of the Coalition Government’s ongoing commitment to enhancing workforce participation and opportunities for vulnerable Victorians who have a mental health illness,” said Mr Bull.

 “The Coalition Government wants to significantly increase the employment rate of people with a mental illness.  In order to achieve this goal, the Committee is seeking information and advice on a number of areas.”

a) evidence of the low rate of workforce participation of people with mental illness and the social and economic costs involved

b) identification of the barriers that people with mental illness experience in gaining and retaining employment

c) the respective roles of, and collaboration between, local, state and Commonwealth governments, business and community organisations in supporting the workforce participation of people with mental illness

d) the effectiveness of programs that aim to improve the workforce participation of people with mental illness, including best practice models

e) opportunities for tailoring education and vocational training for the needs of people with mental illness

f) effective measures to support employers to recruit, employ and retain people with mental illness

g) the role of mental health services, and general health and community services, in improving the workforce participation of people with mental illness.

Submissions are due by 11 November 2011, although extensions may be granted to ensure the individuals and organisations have an opportunity to provide their views to the Victorian Parliament.

For information, telephone (03) 8682 2843, or visit