We recognise the work already completed as part of the independent review by the South Australian Law Reform Institute (SALRI).

The report recommends that the MHA reflect a greater focus on the promotion of wellbeing and prevention strategies. We seek to make specific commentary on the questions and recommendations from SALRI’s review. 

We believe it is important that the MHA upholds human rights in international law including the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD) which focuses on moving away from involuntary treatment models “towards a model of supported decision making”.  

It is vital that any changes made to the MHA are accompanied by the development of guidelines and training to ensure consistency in understanding of the legislation for those working in the sector. 

It is also important that any changes made to the legislation (that impacts service delivery) are simultaneously met with increased resourcing.