Advocacy, Human Rights & the Legal System

Providing supports and guidance to ensure people's rights, including their protections under law, are upheld

ACT Public Advocate acts on behalf of children, young people and adults in the community who live with a condition or are in a situation that makes them potentially vulnerable to abuse, exploitation or neglect. This includes people 'in care' such as in a mental health facility or supported community accommodation. Phone 02 6207 0707 or visit www.publicadvocate.act.gov.au for more information.

Click here to access advocacy service providers, including Carers ACT's Advocate for Carers.

ACT Human Rights Commission considers complaints, raises awareness of human rights, provides community education and makes recommendations for service improvements. There are currently three commissioners covering the following portfolios: children and young people; disability services, discrimination, health services, human rights; and older people. Phone 02 6205 2222 or visit http://www.hrc.act.gov.au/ for more information.

ACT Civil and Administrative Tribunal considers applications and has the powers to make Mental Health Orders. Orders are made in situations where the person is at serious risk to themselves or to the community. Phone 02 6207 1470 for more information. Visit www.acat.act.gov.au/mental_health/applicationsforms to download an application for a Mental Health Order.

The Tribunal also has the powers to consider financial management and guardianship applications. The overriding principle in making a Financial Management or Guardianship Order is that the person to be protected must have impaired decision-making ability. Phone 02 6207 1740 for more information or visit http://www.acat.act.gov.au/guardianship/guardianship_management_of_property