Our History
Our Formation
Community Mental Health Australia (CMHA) was established in 2012 to bring a unified, national voice to the community-managed mental health sector. It was created by the state and territory mental health peak bodies in recognition that national advocacy, informed by lived experience and grounded in community, was essential to driving meaningful reform.
Since its formation, CMHA has grown into the recognised national peak body for community-managed mental health. Our work reflects a sector that is deeply connected to the people and communities it serves, delivering psychosocial support, prevention, early intervention, and recovery-oriented care across Australia.
Centred in Human Rights
From the beginning, CMHA has been driven by a commitment to human rights, co-leadership, and courageous systems change. We are proud to be a recognised Disability Representative Organisation (DRO) and Disability and Carer Representative Organisation (DRCO), contributing to national reforms across health, disability, social services, and ageing portfolios
Shaped by Shared Purpose
Over time, our work has expanded to include national networks, major community-led initiatives, and strategic partnerships with lived experience peaks and government. At every stage, CMHA’s history has been shaped by collaboration, shared purpose, and the belief that the mental health system must be built with, not just for, the people who use it.
Today, CMHA continues to be a fearless and values-driven voice for a sector that is essential to the mental health and wellbeing of communities across Australia.
Contact Us
Provide your details to get in touch with the Chief Executive Officer at CMHA