The VTPU and the Victorian Foundation for the Survivors of Torture (VFST) have worked collaboratively to develop a network of mental health professionals to support the needs of refugees and asylum seekers. It arose from a concern that although a high percentage of refugee and humanitarian entrants have been identified as experiencing the effects of physical and psychological violence, many do not have adequate access to appropriate mental health care services.

Late in 2002, funding was received from the Department of Human Services to pilot the establishment of a Refugee Mental Health Clinic which is currently delivering psychiatric services to refugees. The Clinic has been established and operates from the VFST in Parkville.