Victoria Legal Aid

Independent Mental Health Advocacy

Independent Mental Health Advocacy provides information, support and advocacy to assist people to have a say in their treatment, care and recovery.

Independent Mental Health Advocacy supports people who are receiving compulsory psychiatric treatment to have as much say as possible about their assessment, treatment and recovery. Our advocates are 'on the side' of people receiving compulsory treatment and are independent from hospitals and mental health services.

Our advocates are based in Melbourne, Geelong, Bendigo and Dandenong, and support people across Victoria.

Independent Mental Health Advocacy goals

Our approach to advocacy is guided by the principlesExternal Link of the Mental Health Act 2014.

The Act promotes voluntary treatment where ever possible and focuses on recovery.

In particular, our service aligns with these principles for the provision of mental health services:

  • they are to be delivered in the least restrictive way possible
  • they will promote recovery and full participation in community life
  • people who are subject to compulsory treatment have the right to take part in decisions about their own assessment, treatment and recovery
  • respect for the rights, dignity and autonomy of people with a mental illness.

Getting help

If you are receiving compulsory treatment our independent advocates can:

  • listen to what you want and talk to you about your options
  • give you information and support to act on your rights
  • work with you so you can have your say
  • refer you to other services if you need.

Call us on 1300 947 820 between 9.30 am and 4.30 pm Monday to Friday or email contact@imha.vic.gov.au.

Visit the Independent Mental Health AdvocacyExternal Link website to find out:

Keep informed

If you want to receive updates about the service you can follow us on TwitterExternal Link or subscribe to Advocacy MattersExternal Link

Disclaimer: The material in this print-out relates to the law as it applies in the state of Victoria. It is intended as a general guide only. Readers should not act on the basis of any material in this print-out without getting legal advice about their own particular situations. Victoria Legal Aid disclaims any liability howsoever caused to any person in respect of any action taken in reliance on the contents of the publication.

We help Victorians with their legal problems and represent those who need it most. Find legal answers, chat with us online, or call us. You can speak to us in English or ask for an interpreter. You can also find more legal information at www.legalaid.vic.gov.au

Reviewed 18 March 2022

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