Courses and programs

NSW Mental Health Act (2007)

Overview

The NSW Mental Health Act (2007) (the ‘Act’) establishes the legislative framework within which care and treatment can be provided for persons with a mental illness in NSW. A good understanding of the major objectives and requirements of the Act is important for all those who work within the mental health system.

The Act, which came into operation in November 2007, retained many of the central principles of the previous 1997 legislation such as the definitions of mental illness, a mentally ill person, and a mentally disordered person. Following a review, the Act was amended in 2015, and again in 2018.

NSW Health has commissioned HETI to provide these Mental Health Act Webpages to provide information and guidance for staff working within the Act across the NSW Health System.

Information provided on these pages does not replace the requirement for clinicians to refer directly to current, relevant legislation for requirements of their roles and responsibilities.

HETI Mental Health Act Training

HETI Mental Health Act Resources