Victoria's public service union has vowed to fight the Allan Government's plans to absorb VicHealth into the state's Department of Health, following widespread opposition from staff, public health leaders, community organisations, academics, and former political leaders.

At a workplace meeting this week, CPSU members at VicHealth voted unanimously to oppose the merger and fight against the proposed end to the foundation’s independence.

The government's decision to adopt this Silver Review recommendation came without consultation of VicHealth staff or leadership, and is out of step with the foundation’s widespread support across the sector.

As the world’s first health promotion foundation, VicHealth has transformed the wellbeing of Victorians through programs including sport and active living, alcohol and tobacco harm prevention, healthy eating, mental wellbeing, and thousands of community partnerships.

VicHealth's effectiveness comes from its collaborative-but-independent governance, which enables it to pursue long-term evidence-based work separate from the political cycle; and to take strong positions on harmful commercial activities that impact the health of Victorians.

While the government claims the decision is to "avoid duplication", VicHealth performs a different role to the health system and the department, focused on preventing chronic diseases and reducing presentations to it. Folding the foundation into the Department will undo all the innovative, community-led work that VicHealth independently delivers, leading to negative community consequences while chronic disease, mental health conditions, and health inequities are rapidly increasing.

Recent Australian Government budget data shows every dollar invested in preventive health saves an estimated $14.30 in healthcare and other costs, reducing impacts on the broader health system. VicHealth has set the gold standard inspiring a global network of similar organisations, proving that independent, community-centred prevention reduces illness and strengthens population health.

Remarks attributable to CPSU Victoria Branch Secretary Jisella Hanna:

"Four decades of success show this approach works. The message from health experts, our members, and the community is clear: VicHealth must remain strong, independent and properly resourced. We will fight for this to safeguard the health of our communities."

"If this is a matter of cost, there are other ways to achieve budget repair without stripping VicHealth of its independence. We call on the Victorian Government to recognise its vital role keeping Victorians healthy, and consult with our members and the sector on sensible alternative reforms."

Victorians can help save VicHealth by signing and sharing this petition, calling and writing to MPs (instructions here) and supporting the campaign online.

Media contact: media@cpsuvic.org