Thursday, 10 September 2026

 Ingrid STITT (Western Metropolitan – Minister for Health, Minister for Mental Health, Minister for Ambulance Services, Special Minister of State) (09:55): Today is R U OK? Day, a day that reminds us of the importance of checking in with the people around us and making time for honest conversations about our mental health. R U OK? Day may be today, but looking out for one another is something that matters every day. Checking in, listening and reminding someone that they are not alone can make a real difference. We know that talking openly about our mental health is not always easy. As a government we are getting on with the important work of rebuilding Victoria’s mental health and wellbeing system, but government cannot do this work alone. We all have a role to play in creating communities where people feel safe to talk openly about their mental health. That means being willing to ask how someone is really going and listening without judgement when the answer is, ‘I’m not okay.’ Today I encourage everyone to take the time to check in with a friend, family member, colleague or neighbour.