Mental health law allows people who are mentally ill to be kept in hospital involuntarily in some circumstances. Legal Aid NSW provides a duty service to mentally ill people who are detained in hospital, including advice and representation.
If a person is not able to make financial or lifestyle decisions for themselves, a different person could be appointed to make these decisions for them. A Guardianship Order allows someone else to make lifestyle decisions on their behalf, for example, where they should live or what medical treatment they should get. A Financial Management Order allows someone else to make financial decisions on for them.
If you care for a family member or friend of a person who is mentally ill and detained in hospital, you may be entitled to be kept updated with that persons medical treatments and any Tribunal proceedings. Other supports are available for friends, family and carers of people who are mentally ill.
Duty service in hospitals
Guardianship and Financial Management Orders
Support for family, friends and carers
Ways to get help
