Our state of mind: A community conversation about mental health care

Join Mental Health Victoria, Orygen and Black Dog Institute for an open conversation about your experiences and what you want and need from a future mental health system in Victoria.

No lectern and no lectures. We’re leaving the powerpoint slides at home because the point is to hear from you. 

We're flipping the usual format: at this event, you're not here to listen to us talk. You're here to be heard.

We want to have a genuine conversation about how to improve mental health for all Victorians.

Who is the panel?

Our panellists are people on the frontlines of the fight for Victoria's mental health system.  They contribute to research and innovation, sit on advisory groups, they’re the ones quoted in the newspapers and trying to broker solutions late into the night. They already have a seat at the table.

Three weeks out from the Victorian state election, this is an opportunity for you to equip existing leaders with your knowledge and ideas that they can bring to key decision-making forums.

Nationally distinguished journalist, foreign correspondent, and former independent Member of Parliament Zoe Daniel will guide a conversation between you and:

• Professor Patrick McGorry AO, Executive Director, Orygen

• Phillipa Thomas, CEO, Mental Health Victoria

• Tom Boyd, former AFL player & mental health advocate

• Professor Samuel Harvey, Executive Director and Chief Scientist, Black Dog Institute

• Tamara Wraith, Family/Carer Representative

Who is this event for?

If you care about mental health in Victoria, this event is for you. We want a cross-section of Victorian society, not just the sector talking to itself. We’re reaching out to local footy clubs, neighbourhood houses, local councils and community groups to get out of the echo chamber and into community.

Help us kickstart the conversation by submitting your questions in your ticket registration form.

On the night, you can also contribute live via Slido, and MHV and Orygen staff will be moving through the room with microphones.

Peer support workers and clinicians will be clearly visible and available for anybody who may need to have a break and a chat at any time throughout the night.

How much is it?

This is a free event. To keep this event free, unfortunately we are unable to provide catering. Please grab a bite to eat beforehand.