Who We Are
Community Mental Health Australia (CMHA) is the national peak body for the community-managed mental health sector. We exist to create a system where people and communities are supported to live with dignity, where rights are upheld, and where mental health support is inclusive, accessible, and grounded in real-life experience.
We represent state and territory mental health peaks and, through them, more than 400 community-managed organisations across the country. These services deliver vital psychosocial supports to tens of thousands of Australians every year.
What We Stand For
CMHA is driven by a vision for transformation - where human rights are at the heart of mental health systems, and people with lived experience are co-leading change. Our work is grounded in values that shape every aspect of how we engage, advocate, and collaborate:
- A human rights approach – advocating for systems that respect autonomy, dignity, and justice
- Co-leadership – sharing power with lived experience and ensuring decisions are made with, not for, communities
- Fearless representation – speaking with courage on behalf of a sector that knows what works
- Collaboration – building trust and partnerships that drive national impact
- Curiosity and integrity – challenging assumptions, listening deeply, and staying accountable to those we serve
We work across sectors and governments to influence national reform, as a recognised Disability Representative Organisation (DRO) and Disability and Carer Representative Organisation (DRCO), with a seat at critical policy tables across health, social services, disability, and the NDIS.
Our Vision
Our aim is to transform the mental health system into one where human rights are at the centre of institutions and laws, where people feel empowered to challenge injustice, and where communities thrive through access to community-based, recovery-oriented support. This vision is outlined in our Statement of Strategic Intent 2025–2027, which guides our work and strengthens our collective voice.
Our Staff
Our team brings a diverse mix of skills, experience, and lived expertise, all grounded in a shared commitment to community mental health. Together, we work to deliver projects, advocacy, and national coordination that strengthens the sector and supports lasting systems change.
Our Board
Community Mental Health Australia is governed by a committed Board made up of leaders from member organisations across the country. Board members volunteer their time to provide strategic oversight and sector guidance, helping to shape the organisation’s national vision and impact.
Our History
Established in 2012, CMHA was formed by state and territory mental health peaks to create a strong, united voice for the community-managed mental health sector. Our history is rooted in collaboration, rights-based reform, and the belief that systems must be shaped by the communities they serve.
