Community Mental Health Systems: Human Rights and Services.

After 50 years of de-institutionalisation, most of the large psychiatric hospitals have either been closed or substantially downsized.

It is 40 years since the first Australian research project showed that community-based care was effective and preferred by people and their families. But are we now in danger of re-creating those institutions in the community?

People with lived experience of mental health disorders have the right to live in the community in freedom, among family and friends, with dignity, respect and ability to exercise their human rights.

In this year’s Forum we will examine international, national and local policies, research and practice to build a picture of what is needed to enable a person with lived experience of mental health issues to attain or retain their full citizenship in society.

We are pleased to welcome Peter Hawkins, Professor of Leadership at Henley Business School, as the keynote speaker and facilitator for this two day forum. You can expect to be part of a thought-provoking, challenging and respectful learning experience. Experts from Australia and New Zealand will present mental health research, policy and programs so that we can answer these questions.