The NSW Mental Health Act (2007)

The Mental Health Act is the law that determines when someone can be assessed, treated, or kept in hospital against their will because of a serious mental illness. It’s designed to keep people safe and make sure any care is given in the safest and most appropriate way.

It also covers things like:

• allowing doctors to assess someone
• explaining the person’s rights and how they can appeal decisions
• letting the person choose support people (like a designated carer or principal care provider) who can help and be involved in their care

Your Mental Health Rights

Under the Mental Health Act 2007 (NSW), you have clear rights regarding your care.

In simple terms, you have the right to:

• Be involved in your own care, with mental health clinicians including your views in care planning.
• Be told about your treatment, other options available, and any risks or side effects.
• Have support people such as a "designated carer" or "principal care provider." These people can be updated on your health and events affecting your health care.
• Both you and your carer can ask to speak with Official Visitors if you are worried about the quality of your care.

More information can be found here: