The Mental Health Complaints Commissioner (MHCC) is independent and does not provide legal advice. However, you can seek legal advice from the organisations listed below.
| Example issue | Help |
|---|---|
I am on a Compulsory Treatment Order and need to talk to a lawyer. I need representation at the Mental Health Tribunal. I want advice about whether I can take legal action against the mental health service or about another legal issue. | Victoria Legal Aid (VLA)Phone: 1300 792 387 VLA gives people on compulsory treatment orders information, support and advocacy to assist them to have a say in their assessment, treatment, and recovery. Some people are eligible for free legal advice and representation. OR Mental Health Legal Centre (MHLC)Phone: 9629 4422 The MHLC offers a free and confidential legal service for people with a lived experience of mental illness or involvement with the mental health system. This includes help to make Advance Statements. |
| Find a lawyer | Find a Lawyer Legal Referral ServicePhone: 03 9607 9550 Referrals to private lawyers working in different areas. OR Federation of Community Legal Centres (CLCs)Phone: (03) 9652 1501 CLCs are independent community organisations that provide free legal services to the public. Each has different guidelines about who they can help and what they can help with. Most focus on helping people who face economic and social disadvantage and who cannot afford a private lawyer and are ineligible for legal aid. |
Reviewed 13 April 2021