Content Update: HPU 136 Mental Health Inpatient Unit – Subacute and Non-Acute (MHIPU-SANA)

AusHFG is pleased to announce the publication of the updated  HPU 136 Mental Health Inpatient Unit – Subacute and Non-Acute (MHIPU-SANA) (Version 4.0, August 2026) on the AusHFG website. The document has undergone a comprehensive review through an extensive consultation process using a co-design approach. The review brought together clinical, operational and technical experts, alongside people with lived experience of mental illness, ensuring the guideline reflects contemporary practice and the needs of consumers, carers and service providers.

The updated guideline reinforces alignment with contemporary mental health service models, national planning frameworks, and emerging best practice in the planning and design of subacute and non-acute inpatient mental health facilities. It strengthens the focus on rehabilitation and recovery-oriented care, providing clearer guidance for planners, designers and health services delivering mental health inpatient services for consumers with complex care needs.

Key changes to the document include:

• Renaming of the HPU from Non-Acute Inpatient Mental Health Unit to Mental Health Inpatient Unit – Subacute and Non-Acute (MHIPU-SANA) to align with current mental health guideline terminology.
• Clearer definition of the MHIPU-SANA service model, consumer cohort, treatment objectives and transition planning requirements.
• Updated bed number guidance and enhanced flexibility for pod configuration and service delivery.
• Expanded recommendations supporting de-escalation, sensory regulation and the reduction of restrictive practices.
• Strengthened safety and security guidance, including considerations for unit egress models, emerging technologies and contraband prevention.
• Enhanced design guidance for therapeutic, recovery-focused environments, including natural light, biophilic design and access to quality outdoor spaces.
• Updated food service and self-catering recommendations that support consumer independence and rehabilitation.
• Refined functional relationships, circulation and access requirements.
• Updated non-standard components and Schedule of Accommodation to reflect contemporary operational practices and benchmarking outcomes.

A thank you is extended to all contributors who participated in the review and update of this guideline.

Kind regards,

The AusHFG Team