JavaScript is required

How to be included on the Schools Mental Health Menu

Procurement process

Providers on the Schools Mental Health Menu (the Menu) are appointed through a rigorous Invitation to Supply (ITS) procurement process. The most recent ITS process was conducted in 2024, with successful providers appointed to the Menu for 3 years.

The timing and scope of the next ITS process is yet to be determined.

ITS processes are conducted through the Victorian government’s Buying for Victoria tenders portal. Providers of evidence-based student mental health and wellbeing programs wishing to be considered for inclusion on the next iteration of the Menu should register on Buying for Victoria and complete the following steps:

  • register an account
  • sign up for future Schools Mental Health Menu updates by saving a search for 'Schools Mental Health', then look through the results for tenders issued by the Department of Education
  • for any technical assistance, please contact the Buying for Victoria helpdesk directly on 03 7005 9777.

Preparing for the next ITS

The application process for the Menu is comprehensive, requiring applicants to submit an in-depth Offer that outlines their organisation and program in detail.

Tender documents and specific requirements will be made available through Buying for Victoria when the next ITS is launched. Providers should ensure they review these carefully and allocate sufficient time and resources to complete the application by the closing date.

Evidence

The Royal Commission into Victoria’s Mental Health System emphasised the importance of evidence-based initiatives in supporting student mental health and wellbeing. In response to this, evidence evaluation has played a key role in the assessment and selection of programs for the Menu.

To support providers in building an evidence base, the department, in partnership with the University of Melbourne Faculty of Education, held a briefing in July 2025. The recording of the briefing can be accessed below.

ITS Scope

Evidence-based programs considered for inclusion on the Menu must support both student mental health and wellbeing.

The specific scope for the next ITS is yet to be determined and will be outlined in the tender documents made available when the ITS is launched. Providers should ensure that they read these documents carefully, as out-of-scope programs cannot be considered for the Menu.

Tier 3 targeted support

Tier 3 interventions must be delivered by a trained mental health and wellbeing professional. As schools can employ appropriately qualified and registered practitioners directly, these services are out-of-scope for the ITS process.

Updated