MHiPS in Victoria

MHiPS in Victoria

Following development of the MHiPS model, MHiPS was launched as a pilot in 10 Victorian schools in 2020. It was subsequently expanded to 26 schools, and then 100 schools – with each expansion subject to an evaluation. In 2022, on the basis of the evaluation findings, the Victorian Government confirmed they would commit $200 million to a statewide expansion of MHiPS. Statewide expansion commenced in 2023, and MHiPS is due to reach every government and low-fee non-government primary school in the state by 2026.

Findings from the evaluation of MHiPS in Victorian schools have been overwhelmingly positive, and as statewide expansion of MHiPS in Victoria continues, the MHiPS team will continue to monitor and evaluate progress. The latest evaluation results can be found in our reports.

“We are definitely noticing a difference with staff. I think the change comes from understanding that these [student] behaviours aren’t personal or this child isn’t doing things just to be hurtful or because they want attention, but there is an underlying reason and they need the support – and I think that’s really changed the thinking around the school.”

(MHWL, 2023 MHiPS school, Victoria)

“I’ve observed calm classrooms, students who are more assured, feel safer and supported, and improvement in our student survey.”

(Staff member, 2023 MHiPS school, Victoria)