The 2025-26 Victorian state budget’s billions for healthcare has overlooked eating disorders, the only mental illness that continues to rise since the pandemic.

Seven months into this government’s Victorian Eating Disorders Strategy, there is no new funding and no accountability to bring the plan to life.

Eating Disorders Victoria (EDV) CEO Belinda Caldwell said, “eating disorders impact 1 in 10 Australians, but are unique in that with the right support, anyone can fully recover.

“People experiencing eating disorders deserve so much more than a few new, limited programs dotting the state. They deserve a full and fair chance to recover.”

EDV urges Premier Jacinta Allan and Treasurer Jaclyn Symes to invest in what their Strategy outlines, in particular:

• sustained early intervention initiatives that meet demand
• support for demographics at higher risk of eating disorders
• support for carers to sustain recovery efforts at home
• an oversight group to keep the Strategy on track.

Mrs Caldwell said, “We have seen what systemic change this government is capable of when they fully back a strategy. With the immense generosity of our community’s input into the Strategy, there is a real chance here. Why interrupt the momentum?”

-ENDS-

Media Contact: Katia Pellicciotta 0490 660 259 or [email protected]

Talent available for interview: EDV CEO Belinda Caldwell

About Eating Disorders Victoria

Eating Disorders Victoria (EDV) is the state’s leading community health provider of free eating disorder care. We work for empowered and safe relationships with food, eating, body and movement for everyone.