Equality before the law
NT MENTAL HEALTH COALITION
Media Release 30 September 2009
Equality before the law
The Northern Territory Mental Health Coalition (NTMHC) has thrown its weight behind calls for immediate improvements in the way people with mental health issues are treated by the criminal justice system.
‘It’s critical that the NT Government provides better services for people with mental health issues’ said NTMHC co-ordinator Mr Phil Dempster today. The Coalition endorsed the calls from NT Chief Justice, Brian Martin, and the North Australian Aboriginal Justice Agency for further resources to be invested in mental health.
“There is an urgent need for extra beds and staff in the mental health facilities at the Alice Springs and Royal Darwin hospitals” said Mr Dempster. “But we also need suitable long-term accommodation for Territorians suffering severe mental illness. Once people have a stable place to live and the social and medical support they need, it becomes possible to help them overcome related concerns like drug and alcohol issues.”
The NT Government must immediately consider the introduction of a mental health diversion court of the kind which operates successfully in South Australia. The Territory has the highest rate of any Australian jurisdiction of Aboriginal people suffering from mental instability, but our system is not equipped to respond adequately. Adoption of the South Australian model would encourage early assessment, and streamline the delivery of services to defendants with mental health issues.”
Mr Dempster supported calls for a review of the existing NT laws relating to mental impairment and unfitness to stand trial. “Changes are needed so that people can raise a legitimate defence of mental impairment, without exposing themselves to the possibility of indefinite imprisonment.”
“We need NT Government assistance to develop a holistic plan across the Territory, so that communities can generate solutions, rather than be passive recipients of inadequate services.”
“This is a fundamental human rights issue” concluded Mr Dempster.
Media comment: Phil Dempster - NT Mental Health Coalition 0400 798 619
Source:
NT Mental Health Coalition 
