Human Rights Week 2023

Human Rights in action - Human Rights Week 2023

Human Rights Week 2023

International Human Rights Day is observed every year on 10 December. On this day in 1948, the United Nations General Assembly adopted the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.

This year’s Human Rights Week (Vic) is from 4 – 10 December 2023 and we are partnering with our affiliate organisations to put Human Rights in Action.

If you would like to improve your knowledge of human rights and apply this knowledge in a practical way, sign up to take part in daily actions on the Victorian Equal Opportunity & Human Rights Commission’s website.

At the MHWC, we take a human rights-based approach and the principles of Mental Health Act 2022 (the Act) and the Charter of Human Rights and Responsibilities Act 2006 guide all our work. When people contact us, we help them understand and exercise their rights and advise them on the next steps using a rights-based, trauma-informed, recovery-oriented approach.

Actions

Are you aware that the recently established Mental Health and Wellbeing Commission is now operational? Did you also know that Victoria has a new Mental Health Act 2022 (the Act)?

To do now: The Act came into effect on 1 September this year and supports changes underway to create a diverse, responsive and compassionate mental health and wellbeing system for all Victorians. If you are a consumer, carer or supporter accessing a publicly funded mental health and wellbeing service in Victoria, you may want to familiarise yourself with the Act.

To do this week: Understanding the Act helps individuals know their rights and principles within Victoria’s mental health and wellbeing system, ensuring they are treated with dignity and respect. It empowers them to actively participate in decision-making processes related to treatment and care. Below are some resources:

And finally, exercise your right to complain If you feel that your rights, or the rights of someone you care for, have not been upheld while receiving mental health and wellbeing assessment or treatment. You can contact us on 1800 246 054, email help@mhwc.vic.gov.au, or go to our complaints page.

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