Mental Health – Your Rights

As a consumer, or as the family member of a consumer who is currently receiving treatment through a Queensland Health facility, you may have questions about your rights and the support that is available to you.

The Mental Health Act 2016 Statement of Rights is a resourced developed by Queensland Health to help consumers understand their rights, as both a voluntary and involuntary patient.

There are also a number of fact sheets available to consumers and their families to help them navigate the mental health system.

Independent Patient Rights Advisors (IPRA)

IPRAs role is to advise patients and their support networks about their rights under the Mental Health Act 2016. The IPRAs work in conjunction with the consumer’s treating team; however, are employed separately to the mental health team, ensuring their independence.

The IPRAs help consumers develop their communication skills to help them better communicate with their treating team, support patients in preparation for Mental Health Review Tribunals, assist consumers in finding a nominated support person, connect consumers with legal professionals and advise consumers of the benefits of an advance health directive or enduring power of attorney.

You can contact the IPRA by phoning 4433 1399 or emailing {"ct":"+\/OhCYUgAm5N7Btcb\/L56LTzdOc3cPYlHLIZinZmoqk=","iv":"1949694e734735f51c7a97b3a9e89e33","s":"94174f438d194a92"}.

Contact Details

24/7 Crisis assistance and support
Mental Health Intake and Referral:
Ph: 1300MH CALL (1300 64 2255)

24/7 Alcohol and Drug Information Service:
Ph: 1800 177 833

In a life-threatening emergency:
Telephone triple zero (000) or 112 from mobiles

Related Links

Queensland Health - Mental Health home page
Mental Health Act 2016
Caring for somebody with a mental illness
Find a mental health service