Mental Health Carers Voice began 2026 with strong momentum, focusing on strengthening the visibility, recognition and influence of mental health carers across the ACT. Early work has centred on key advocacy and policy priorities, supported by the continued leadership of MHCV’s policy team and lived experience input.

Recent advocacy includes submissions to the ACT Budget, family and sexual violence legislation reforms, and inquiries into health system data and processes. These emphasise the need for improved carer recognition, better data collection, increased respite options, and stronger systemic support for carers. MHCV is also progressing its 2025 Carer Survey Report to further inform evidence-based reform.

The organisation is expanding its engagement through a new LinkedIn presence and ongoing consultation opportunities, including forums on emerging topics such as the use of artificial intelligence in caring roles. National policy developments, including negotiations on the next National Mental Health and Suicide Prevention Agreement, are also being closely monitored due to their significant implications for carers.

Across all work, MHCV continues to prioritise improving recognition of carers, increasing access to personal time and respite, and building carers’ capacity and confidence through training, resources and system-level advocacy

To read the latest newsletter, please click here – Mental Health Carers Voice-mail