COTA SA welcomes the opportunity to contribute to the Supplementary Consultation Regarding the Mental Health Act 2009 – Government Review.

COTA SA cares deeply about ageing well and is committed to ensuring older South Australians have the opportunity, capacity and ability to navigate the changes of ageing in their place of choice. The Supplementary Consultation Regarding the Mental Health Act 2009 – Government Review is an opportunity to ensure older South Australians are safeguarded now and into the future. Our population is ageing: in June 2020, approximately 16% of Australians were aged 65 and over and this is projected to rise to 21-23% by 20661. Our ageing population should be a major driver for appropriate, rights-based mental health legislation that safeguards the well-being of older people.

Issues for consideration

Mental health challenges among older Australians are significant, with rising reports of depression, anxiety, and increased demand for mental health services2. The consultation paper outlines the approaches used to inform the proposed amendments, which COTA SA welcomes, particularly the emphasis on both human rights and wellbeing as guiding principles.

However, we provide concerns and points for further consideration, regarding the proposed amendments.