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As we celebrate this special date, let's take a moment to highlight some of the remarkable achievements from our first year.
Honouring Professor Margaret Hamilton AO
Our launch in April 2023 marked an important moment in advancing the recommendations of the Royal Commission into Victoria's Mental Health System. Named in honour of Professor Margaret Hamilton AO, a leading figure in Australian public health, the Centre continues her legacy of excellence and innovation.
Bolstering the Addiction Specialist Workforce
Less than six months after opening its doors, the Centre announced 20 scholarships for Victorian Mental Health and Wellbeing workers to undertake the Graduate Certificate of Addictive Behaviours in 2024, delivered online by Monash University. This initiative underscores our commitment to enhancing skills and improving outcomes in addressing mental health and substance use disorders.
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Professor Margaret Hamilton and our Clinical Director, A/Professor Shalini Arunogiri, at the Centre’s launch event in April 2023.
Expanding Our Team and Services
Under the dynamic leadership of our Clinical Director, A/Professor Shalini Arunogiri, the Centre has witnessed extraordinary growth. With the addition of new team members and expanded services, we now offer an Advice and Mentorship Line to support Victorian workers who provide care for individuals with co-occurring mental health and substance use or addiction issues. This is a safe space to ask experienced clinicians for advice without worry of judgement - there are no wrong questions! Visit our FAQ page to learn more about this service.
The Power of Our Clinical Network
In its inaugural year, the Centre received 700 referrals for support to individuals and clinicians and conducted over 300 primary consultations, impacting care to over 400 individuals across its clinical network sites.
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Hamilton Centre Central Team celebrates our first anniversary.
Education & Training Program
We have recently launched our new online Education & Training Program, designed to empower workers in integrated care settings across the state. The initial modules - "Introduction to Co-Occurring Conditions" and "Therapeutic Relationships" – are now available.
Revamped Website
This is the go-to place for service providers, individuals with co-occurring mental health and substance use conditions, and their families and carers to find up-to-date information, resources, and support. Explore a training calendar of professional development opportunities on co-occurring conditions, as well as the latest news and research from the field.
We look ahead with optimism and determination as we celebrate this significant mark. The Hamilton Centre remains dedicated to its mission of providing holistic, expert care and fostering positive change in the lives of those in need.
Stay tuned for more updates as we continue to advance mental health and addiction care at the Hamilton Centre!