Peninsula Health were announced as a finalist in the 2025 Victorian Public Healthcare Awards for its work in ending the use of seclusion and mechanical restraints in mental-health inpatient settings.
Recognition announced in October
The announcement, made last month in October, acknowledges Peninsula Health’s achievement in maintaining a three-year record with zero seclusion or restraint incidents across its mental-health units.
The Department of Health said the change had created “a safer, more therapeutic and rights-based environment for all.”
A shift in how care is delivered
Peninsula Health said the change came through a data-driven and collaborative approach, focusing on leadership commitment, cultural change, workforce development, and continuous evaluation to reduce restrictive interventions in hospital settings.
Dr Kerryn Rubin, Peninsula Health’s Clinical Director of Mental Health and Wellbeing, said the decision to eliminate the practice was guided by safety and compassion.
“While it was once seen as a way to keep people safe, the practice is deeply traumatic for the person involved, for staff, and for anyone who witnesses it. It also carries a high risk of injury,” Dr Rubin said.
How they did it
According to the Department, the result came from a data-driven and collaborative approach that brought together leadership commitment, cultural change, workforce development, and ongoing evaluation to reduce restrictive interventions in hospital settings.
Safer workplaces, better care
Since removing seclusion and mechanical restraints, Peninsula Health has also reported fewer incidents of occupational violence and workplace injuries, along with improved psychological safety and wellbeing among staff.
The Department said the initiative has not only protected patient rights but strengthened safety and quality across the entire service.
What it means locally
Peninsula Health delivers public mental-health services across the Frankston and Mornington Peninsula region. The recognition shows what can be achieved when hospitals focus on respect, safety, and recovery in mental-health care.
The winners of the 2025 Victorian Public Healthcare Awards will be announced later this month on 26 November.
