Find out about the legislation relating to mental health and addictions.
Mental health and addiction
We’re working to transform New Zealand’s mental health and addiction system.
Repealing and replacing the Mental Health Act
The Mental Health (Compulsory Assessment and Treatment) Act 1992 is legislation that sets out when, why and how the government can intervene in a person’s life to give them mental health treatment against their will.
The Act has not kept pace with new approaches to care and we want to find out what mental health legislation in New Zealand should look like.
Public consultation is now open – get more information, make a submission, or register for consultation meetings.
Updates & announcements
- 1 December 2021 - A message from Phil Grady, Acting Deputy Director-General, Mental Health and Addiction
- 29 November 2021 - Suicide prevention initiatives making a difference
- 28 October 2021 - Mental Health Act Amendment Bill passes third reading
- 23 October 2021 - Festival drug-checking services get a boost
- 22 October 2021 - Transforming New Zealand’s mental health legislation
- 29 September 2021 - Govt delivers more wellbeing support to Rainbow young people
- 27 September 2021 - More community grants to support youth mental wellbeing
- 22 September 2021 - Long-term pathway next step to better mental wellbeing for New Zealanders
- 10 September 2021 - Creating hope through action - World Suicide Prevention Day live event
- 10 September 2021 - Govt boosts Pacific suicide prevention support
- 29 August 2021 - Government delivers early funding for youth mental health
- 30 July - New kaupapa Māori mental health and addiction services to support people in central North Island
- 7 May - More young Kiwis supported with mental health and addiction services - 7 May
- 6 May - Dr Hinemoa Elder appointed Chair of Māori Expert Reference Panel for suicide prevention
- Govt expands Mana Ake to provide more school-based mental wellbeing support - 15 April
- Additional data on new mental health information hub now available - 15 April
- Pacific mental wellbeing supported across Auckland and Wellington - 15 April
- Mental Health Amendment Bill passes first reading - 6 April
- See earlier updates
Recent publications
Mental Health Quarter Three (Jan-Mar 2021) Progress Update
This document outlines the third quarter (January to March 2021) progress made by the Ministry of Health on implementing He Ara Oranga.
COVID-19 Psychosocial and Mental Wellbeing Plan
A framework for actions to support the mental wellbeing of New Zealanders as we respond to the impacts of COVID-19.