I am pleased to welcome to Melbourne delegates to the Inaugural Conference of the Indo-Australasian Psychiatry Association entitled “The Moral Case for International Mental Health”.

Over a number of years, Victoria has been fortunate to benefit from the valuable contribution of a dedicated and gifted range of psychiatrists from the Indo-Asian region who have committed themselves to providing mental health services in both the public and private health sectors in this State.

In an age where we are increasingly conscious of the prevalence of mental illness in our community it is encouraging to see such a positive and global perspective in addressing mental health. Increasingly, we are recognising that culture is important to the causes, treatment and management of mental health issues. There is also a constant demand to respond to changing community needs that include the cultural diversity shaped by immigration, refugees and increasing global interaction. Correspondingly, there is growing evidence that a cultural perspective can also help clinicians become aware of hidden assumptions around the treatment and management of mental health issues.

We pride ourselves that Melbourne is the home, workplace and leisure centre of one of the world's most harmonious and culturally diverse communities. Melbourne is also a leader in a variety of health related services. It is therefore befitting that Melbourne host the Inaugural Conference of the Indo-Australasian Psychiatry Association on “The Moral Case for International Mental Health”.

I welcome all delegates to the Convention and invite you to experience first hand the beauty and diversity of Melbourne .

HON STEVE BRACKS MP
Premier of Victoria