Eating Disorders Victoria (EDV) advocates for improved outcomes for Victorians impacted by eating disorders.

Supported by the latest evidence and the lived experience of our community, we advocate for change in policy and practice at government, business and community level. At the heart of our advocacy is the need for all Victorians, with any eating disorder, to access early, equitable and evidence-based care free from discrimination or bias.

1. Lived Experience and Peer Work

Lived experience and peer work is a human rights and social justice response that empowers those who are generally disempowered by the institutions that are designed to treat them (Mead et al., 2001). This work serves to provide a person centered, trauma informed, and mutual support treatment approach for recovery.

Eating Disorders Victoria (EDV) advocates for the integration of lived experience and peer work across the continuum of eating disorder care. EDV has a 40+ year history of providing lived experience community support, and currently provides world-leading and comprehensive peer support programs.

EDV recognises the unique experience and complexity of eating disorder experiences. Through our lived experience and peer workforce, we inspire hope and motivation at every stage of eating disorder help-seeking, treatment, caring roles and recovery.

2. Carers, Family, and Supporters of Young People (<18yrs) with an Eating Disorder

Eating Disorders Victoria (EDV) advocates for system-wide recognition of the vital role of all carers, family and supporters in facilitating eating disorder recovery.

We recognise that the role of carers of young people <18yrs of age is often intensive and demanding, requiring specific knowledge, skills and resources. We call for focused investment that supports carers to succeed in their caring role. This includes access to financial and community-based supports, such as psychoeducation, skill-building, in-home help and access to peer workers. We also recognise that everyone’s carer experience and recovery journey will look different, and that individualised and person-centred care is essential.

Community-led responses for Victorians with eating disorders

Position paper coming in 2023

Equitable access for Victorians with Binge eating disorder

Position paper coming in 2023

Increasing access to eating disorder services in rural and regional areas

Position paper coming in 2023

We are engaged in key government and independent processes for funding and policy reform relating to eating disorders.

Read our most recent submissions below.

In recognition of the significant and growing issue of eating disorders in Victoria, the Victorian Government has committed to developing a new Victorian Eating Disorder Strategy. The last state-wide strategy was developed in 2014.

The strategy will guide high-quality, safe and evidence-informed practice in promotion, prevention, early intervention and treatment for Victorians with or at risk of developing an eating disorder as well as their families, carers and supporters.