Author: Sudeep Saraf Consultant psychiatrist, Austin Health, Heidelberg, Rosanna, VIC, Australia
Australasian Psychiatry 2015, Vol 23(3) 230–232
© The Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Psychiatrists 2015
Abstract
Objective: There is growing recognition of the utility of advance statements in the area of mental health. The definition
of advance statements and procedure for making and varying advance statements under the Victorian legislation
is described. The implications for psychiatrists, mental health tribunals and the process should the psychiatrist
vary their decision from that made in the advance statement are discussed.
Conclusion: Advance statements being enshrined in legislation is another step in the direction of recovery-oriented
service provision for persons with mental illness. The challenge for services will be to develop systems and processes
that promote increased uptake of these instruments to empower persons with mental illness to participate in their
treatment.