The Peak Body for Mental Health Carers in NSW.
As a peak body, MHCN works with and for mental health carers in NSW. We represent the voices and lived experience of carers which help us to advocate systemically for mental health reform.
Learn More About MHCNOur network is a free community engagement program designed by and for mental health carers, families and friends. Our network is the heart of what we do at MHCN – driven by the lived experience of carers.
Become A MemberMHCN provides a collective voice for carer needs and issues and advocates for government and non-government organisations to engage lived experience in their work.
How We AdvocateOur Vision: Mental Health Carers NSW Inc. (MHCN) is the peak body in NSW for mental health carers, advocating for a Vision of safe and competent mental health services and systems that recognise and respect carers as partners in care planning and delivery, to achieve recovery.
Our Mission: MHCN’s Mission is to support, empower, capacity build, and advocate with mental health carers to ensure their voices and experiences are heard.
We facilitate a range of free training and education sessions for carers, events, information webinars, and lots more – check out what we are doing in 2024!
View Our Programs
All mental health carers
It’s important to look after yourself as a carer. Check out our helpful info + tips about how to take care of your mental health and wellbeing.
View Resource
Diverse mental health carers
Helpful info + support for First Nations Carers.
View Resource
All mental health carers
If you’re worried that your loved one is becoming unwell, check out our helpful tips on how to have the conversation here.
View Resource
All mental health carers
Check out what payments you may be eligible for as a carer and where to get help with your finances.
View Resource
All mental health carers
Information for carers about the mental health system.
View Resource
Joint Media Release: NSW Mental Health Crisis20th January, 2025
The imminent resignation of more than 200 psychiatrists from the NSW public health system, in addition to 140 existing vacancies, highlights the critical state of mental health care in NSW. This shortfall will further intensify the difficulties and distress faced by individuals with acute mental health conditions, as well as their families and carers. According […]
Read Article
MHCN’s 50th Anniversary Event14th January, 2025
On November 28, 2024, Mental Health Carers NSW (MHCN, formerly ARAFMI) celebrated the organisation’s 50th Anniversary with a special awards ceremony at Parliament House, Sydney. Guests enjoyed a three-course meal, drinks, and lucky door prizes in a day filled with celebration, hope, and recognition. The event was MC’ed by Julie McCrossin, former ABC and Channel […]
Read Article
MHCN’s Annual Report 2023 – 202427th November, 2024
We are very excited to announce the release of our Annual Report, which includes key highlights and achievements of our work with and for mental health carers, friends and families from the 2023 – 2024 financial year. The Policy and Advocacy Team had a busy year, focusing on the NDIS review, the Disability Royal Commission, […]
Read Article
MHCN Board Election Nominees 202415th November, 2024
Mental Health Carers NSW (MHCN) are having an election for the Board for the following positions: Voting closes next Friday 22 November at 4.00pm. Election results will be announced at MHCN’s Annual General Meeting on Friday 22 November at 4.40pm. Only members of MHCN can vote. Members can only vote once. Voting is not mandatory. […]
Read Article
MHCN’s Annual General Meeting for 202428th October, 2024
You’re invited to MHCN’s Annual General Meeting for 2024! Hosted by MHCN’s CEO Jonathan Harms, join us as we speak about the highlights of the 2023 – 2024 financial year, including the presentation of our Annual Report, President’s Report, and hear from MHCN’s staff members. In addition, there will be an election for expiring and […]
Read Article
EOI: Carer Focus Group for Feedback on Universal Aftercare Resource8th October, 2024
MHCN and the Agency for Clinical Innovation (ACI) invite carers to an online focus group on Monday 28 October from 4pm – 5:30pm to provide feedback on a proposed suicide-prevention resource. The resource is for service providers delivering the NSW Universal Aftercare Program which involves non-clinical and rapid, assertive follow-up support for individuals who have experienced […]
Read Article
Are you a carer or family member looking for local supports and services but not sure where to look? Our Directory can help you find what you’re looking for.
Our meetings are a space to connect with others, discuss happening at a grass roots level, talk about what advocacy is, how we can work together to identify and address carer issues, and what supports are available.
The Carers of Forensic and Corrections Patients Network is a series of monthly online meetings with family members and carers that have a loved one in the forensic and justice system.
