About the Australian Mental Health Consumer Network
Established in 1996 at the Brisbane TheMHS Conference, the Australian Mental Health Consumer Network (AMHCN) is the peak, national non-government mental health consumer organisation representing the interests of Australian mental health consumers.
The AMHCN consists of its members from all States and Territories of Australia and internationally. Voting (Ordinary) members have full voting rights to nominate and elect the National Committee which is made up of two delegates from each State and Territory and to vote at the Annual General Meeting. Delegates are elected for two year terms with half the committee, i.e. one delegate from each State and Territory, eligible for election each year. Delegates may serve for a maximum of six years then they must stand down but may stand again after one year. The Executive Committee is appointed by the National Committee to manage the day-to-day operation of the Network.
AMHCN voting members are people with a lived experience of mental illness or mental health concerns. Non-voting (Associate) members are those people who support the Mission & Values of the Network and may be individuals, organisations, groups or mental health services.
As an organisation managed and staffed by people who share a commitment to making a difference, we have worked collaboratively to reach out to our members, to governments and the wider community.
While there is increasing recognition of the contribution that the AHMCN is able to make, there remain significant challenges ahead. We are confident of our ability to meet these challenges, by building on our strengths and embracing new opportunities to enhance our capacity to make a difference. Importantly, as a team, the Management Committee and staff bring a diverse range of skills and experience to the organisation and its capacity to achieve real outcomes.
(Incorporated under the Associations Incorporation Act 1991)
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The Australian Mental Health Consumer Network
Is a nationwide network of consumers of mental health services. It exists to:
- Ensure equity and access for mental health consumers
- Empower consumers to utilise all means to achieve and maintain their mental health
- Promote the expansion of consumer participation and influence within the community
Ordinary Members are people who identify themselves as having, or have had, a mental illness or psychiatric disorder, or have used mental health services for their own needs. They have full voting rights to elect State Delegates to the AMHCN Committee, and have full voting rights at AMHCN annual general meetings.
Associate Members are people or organizations who empathise with consumers of mental health services, and support their right to have a voice in planning and providing mental health services. They are entitled to receive the AMHCN newsletter and other materials as determined by the Network.
All members are encouraged to provide their insights, experiences, opinions and expertise to their State Delegates who will pass these onto the AMHCN Committee.
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The AMHCN Executive
The 2004-2006 AMHCN Executive consists of four members, the Chairperson, Deputy Chairperson, Secretary and Treasurer.
The Chair of the AMHCN for 2004-2006 is Mr Wayne Oldfield (SA Delegate).
The Deputy Chairperson for 2004-2006 is Ms Gwen Scotman (NSW Delegate).
The Secretary for 2004-2006 is Mr Evan Bichara (VIC Delegate).
The Treasurer for 2004-2006 is Mr Barry Garvey (QLD Delegate).
Contacts for AMHCN National Committee Members
AMHCN Annual Report 2004-2005
AMHCN Strategic Plan 2005 - 2008
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