Changes in public health management of notifiable conditions in Victoria
During the COVID-19 pandemic, local public health units (LPHUs) were established to manage local cases and outbreaks of COVID-19. Since July 2022, the nine LPHUs (3 metropolitan, 6 regional) have broadened their responsibilities to include disease prevention, population health, and investigation and response to notifiable conditions.
LPHUs are now responsible for managing local cases and outbreaks for over 30 notifiable conditions. The remit of LPHUs in managing notifiable conditions will continue to expand over the coming year and will enhance the state’s capacity to respond.
The department retains overall Stewardship of the notifiable conditions prescribed under the Public Health and Wellbeing Act 2008 and its Regulations (2019), and notification requirements for medical practitioners and pathology providers remain unchanged.
Notifications for urgent conditions should be via phone on 1300 651 160. Routine conditions should be reported online: www.health.vic.gov.au/infectious-diseases
Prevention and population health
LPHUs partner with local organisations (including local government and Primary Health Networks) to deliver localised programs for chronic disease prevention and health promotion. To assist in this work LPHUs will develop a catchment-wide population health plan that aligns with state-wide and municipal public health and wellbeing plans.
For more information on the role of LPHUs or to find your local LPHU visit: https://www.health.vic.gov.au/local-public-health-units