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GV Health recognises the vital role that carers, families and supporters play in the mental health and wellbeing of the people they care for.

We understand that caring can be challenging, and that every carer’s experience is different. This page provides information about your rights, available supports, and how carers can be involved in care in ways that respect the wishes and choices of the person you are supporting. It also outlines how GV Health works with carers under the Mental Health and Wellbeing Act 2022, and where you can find further support, advocacy and information.

Carers are family members, friends, or supporters who provide care, assistance, or support to someone experiencing mental health challenges. This role may involve emotional support, practical help, advocacy, and coordination with services. GV Health recognises carers as important partners in care while also respecting the wishes and rights of the person receiving support.

GV Health provides a range of public mental health services, including inpatient care, community-based services, crisis and acute response, and specialist programs. These services support people across different stages of mental health need and recovery. Carers may interact with services in different ways depending on the service type and the preferences of the person they support.

Support for carers may include information, guidance, emotional support, and connection to carer-specific services. GV Health aims to recognise the needs of carers and provide support where possible, either directly or by linking carers to appropriate external organisations and resources.

The Mental Health and Wellbeing Act 2022 recognises the role of carers, families, and supporters. Carers have rights to be acknowledged, respected, and provided with information and support, subject to privacy and consent requirements. The Act promotes inclusive, respectful engagement with carers as part of the mental health system.

Carer involvement should occur in ways that respect the preferences, consent, and rights of the person receiving care. Where appropriate, carers may be involved in discussions, planning, and support. Services should explain how carers can be involved and any limits to involvement.

Privacy and confidentiality are important parts of mental health care. Information about a person’s treatment can only be shared with carers when consent is provided or when required by law. Staff should explain what information can be shared, what cannot, and why.

When someone is receiving inpatient mental health care, carers can play an important support role. This may include staying informed, offering emotional support, and participating in discussions where appropriate. Staff can explain ward processes, visiting arrangements, and how carers can raise concerns.

Community-based mental health services support people while they live at home or in the community. Carers may support appointments, routines, and recovery goals. Services can provide information about how community teams work and how carers can be involved where appropriate.

Compulsory treatment may occur when there are serious concerns about a person’s safety or wellbeing. This means treatment can be provided without consent under the law. Carers may have questions or concerns during this time, and staff should provide clear, respectful explanations about what compulsory treatment means and what rights apply.

Carers can raise concerns or provide feedback about services by speaking with staff, managers, or lived experience workers. Feedback helps services understand what is working well and what could improve. Carers should feel safe to raise concerns without fear of negative consequences.

If concerns cannot be resolved informally, carers can make a formal complaint through GV Health or seek independent advocacy support. Advocacy services can help carers understand options, raise concerns, and navigate the mental health system.

Carer lived experience workers use their own experience of caring to support other carers. They can provide understanding, information, and guidance, and help carers feel heard and recognised within the service system.

GV Health is committed to providing culturally safe and inclusive support for carers. Services should respect diverse identities, beliefs, values, and family structures, and work in ways that feel safe and respectful.

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander carers can access culturally appropriate support that recognises the importance of culture, family, and connection to Country. Services aim to work in partnership with Aboriginal organisations and respect self-determination.

Carers from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds can access support that respects language, culture, and beliefs. Services aim to reduce barriers and provide information in accessible ways.

Interpreters and communication supports are available at no cost if needed. Carers can request an interpreter to help understand information and communicate clearly with services.

Caring can affect a person’s own wellbeing. It is important for carers to look after their own mental and physical health. Support services, peer groups, and respite options may be available to help carers sustain their caring role.

Discharge planning should consider the needs of both the person receiving care and their carers, where appropriate. This may include information about ongoing supports, follow-up services, and who to contact if concerns arise.

If there is immediate risk to safety, carers should call 000. Crisis mental health services and helplines are also available to provide urgent advice and support. Staff can help carers identify appropriate crisis contacts.

There are a range of external organisations that provide information, education, advocacy, and peer support for carers. GV Health can help carers connect with these services and find resources that meet their needs.

  • ADDRESS

Goulburn Valley Area Mental Health Service

Monash Street
Shepparton, 3630

Beta Street
Seymour, 3660

  • CONTACT

Emergency: 000

Mental Health Triage Service:
1300 369 005

Shepparton: (03) 5832 2111

  • REFERRALS

For referrals please contact Mental Health triage 1300 369 005