Community Visitor Scheme

The Mental Health Act 2009 establishes the Community Visitor Scheme (CVS) in South Australia.

The purpose of the CVS is to provide further protection of the rights of people with a mental illness who are admitted to treatment centres in South Australia.

Further protection of rights ensured by CVS

These further protections are ensured by Community Visitors:

visiting and inspecting approved treatment centres
referring appropriate issues to relevant authorities including the Minister and the Chief Psychiatrist
and advocating for the rights of individuals.

Monthly visits or on request

Each approved treatment centre (including incorporated and private hospitals) is visited once a month.

Community Visitors can also inspect premises on request and consult with consumers, families and staff to ensure that people with serious mental illness are receiving appropriate care and treatment.