In May 2008, the Victorian Government Department of Human Services commenced a broad review of mental health services.
People with mental illness in Victoria experience discrimination within society and the health care system which causes significant social disadvantage. The review aims to shift focus from a response based on illness and acute intervention to one emphasising wellness, early intervention and recovery. The consultation paper, Because mental health matters: a new focus for mental health and wellbeing in Victoria, invited submissions on areas such as prevention, early intervention and access.
The Centre’s submission focuses on first, the application of the Charter to mental health law, policy and practice and second, issues and policy suggestions raised in the consultation paper which engage human rights such as suicide prevention and age-appropriate treatment.
The submission also considers the application of the Charter to the Mental Health Review Board, involuntary treatment, detention without consent and restraint and seclusion. The submission recommends that a human rights approach to mental health reform is necessary to ensure that rights of those experiencing mental illness are protected and promoted in a meaningful way.
