Victoria's mental health watchdog is facing criticism after fighting the release of recommendations aimed at improving services. 

The state’s Mental Health Complaints Commissioner reportedly claimed making the recommendations public could indirectly identify consumers. 

However, mental health advocates and consumers believe that the recommendations could greatly contribute to improving care and shedding light on systemic human rights violations in the sector, as identified by a landmark royal commission.

Critics say the Mental Health Complaints Commissioner's decisions contradict the recommendations of the royal commission, which called for increased transparency in the sector. 

It also suggested the establishment of a new mental health and wellbeing commission (MHWC), which will absorb the Mental Health Complaints Commissioner. The MHWC is expected to commence operations on September 1st and was recommended to handle complaints in a manner that meets the needs of consumers and other stakeholders. 

More details are accessible here, and here.