About the forum:

This forum, along with an online survey, will inform a submission to the Australian Human Rights Commission Free and Equal Project that will be written by the Mental Health Coalition and the Lived Experience Leadership and Advocacy Network (LELAN). It is part of broader work that these two organisations are involved with as the co-convener's of the Human Rights and Mental Health Working Group (HRMHWG) in South Australia.

Our interest is in applying a human-rights lens to the experience of mental health issues, both the way that they are understood and responded to in Australia. We believe that Human Rights in the context of Mental Health is an issue that needs to improve.

The Free and Equal Conversation:

Throughout 2019 the Australian Human Rights Commission (the Commission) have been leading a national conversation on human rights, Free and Equal. They are asking Australians, 'What makes an effective system of human rights protection for 21st century Australia?'

'The purpose of a national conversation on human rights is to develop a roadmap that will guide government action and community partnerships to fully realise human rights and advance equality'.

Broader work of the Human Rights and Mental Health Working Group (HRMHWG):

The HRMHWG are planning other ways to raise awareness and have an impact. The next big focus is World Human Rights Day on Tuesday December 10th. If you wish to stay updated sign up to the LELAN newsletter or follow LELAN and the Coalition on facebook.

If you have any further questions or comment please email info@lelan.org.au or call Ellie on 0422 888 157. Additional information about LELAN or the Mental Health Coalition can be accessed at lelan.org.au or mhcsa.org.au respectively.