“Providing an understanding of mental health consumer and carer needs, issues and solutions.”
The National Mental Health Consumer and Carer Forum (NMHCCF) was a combined national voice for mental health consumers and carers. We listened, learned, influenced and advocated in matters of mental health reform.
The NMHCCF was established in 2002 by the Australian Health Ministers’ Advisory Council and reports to Australian Health Ministers through the Mental Health, Drug and Alcohol Principal Committee.
Funding was provided by the Australian Government and state and territory governments.
The NMHCCF is no longer active as of 30 June 2025, but its legacy will continue on in the incredible work created by its members over the years.
NMHCCF members represented mental health consumers and carers on a large number of national bodies, including government committees and advisory groups, professional bodies and other consultative forums and events.
Members used their lived experience, understanding of the mental health system and communication skills to advocate and promote the issues and concerns of consumers and carers.
The NMHCCF had 28 members of which 14 were mental health consumers and 14 were mental health carers. These members comprised:
- one consumer and one carer representative nominated by each state and territory; and
- consumer and carer representatives from each of the following national projects/organisations:
- blueVoices, the consumer and carer reference group for Beyond Blue
- Carers Australia
- Consumers Health Forum of Australia
- Grow Australia
- Mental Health Carers Australia
- Lived Experience Australia
- Embrace Culturally and Linguistically Diverse (CALD) Mental Health Consumer and Carer Group
