Views on Mental Health Act sought

By Kath Gannaway
YARRA Valley residents will have their views reflected in a review of Victoria’s Mental Health Act.
Mental Health Minister Lisa Neville released a consultation paper on the Act last week and said a series of forums would be held around Victoria before the consultation period closed on 27 February.
Ms Neville said the review would ensure that the Act met current standards and expectations with an effective and modern legislative framework.
“The Act plays a vital role in imposing obligations on government, protecting people with a serious mental illness and regulating the provision of involuntary treatment,” Ms Neville said.
“This review is about ensuring that we protect the rights of Victorians with a mental illness and deliver them the best quality treatment.
“We want to move towards a mental health system that is based on prevention, early intervention, recovery and social inclusion,” she said.
An independent panel has been appointed to conduct the community consultation that will lead to a report to be released in 2009 outlining recommendations for updating the Act.
Ms Neville said the review provided an opportunity for comment, debate and input from patients, carers, health professionals and the community about the Act and how it might be improved.
Copies of the consultation paper and information on making submissions is available at www.health.vic.gov.au/mentalhealth/mhactreview. Further details could be obtained by ringing 1300 656 692.