An updated revision of HPU 134 Adult Acute Mental Health Inpatient Unit (Revision 8.0, October 2024) has been uploaded to the AusHFG website. The revised version has been informed by an extensive consultation process through a co-design approach with clinical, operational and technical experts, as well as participants with lived experience of mental illness.

Key changes to the document include: ​​

• Emphasis on the role of family, carers and supporters as important components of the therapeutic and recovery model for mental health.
• Promotion of physical health and wellbeing of consumers in mental health units.
• Updates regarding Tribunal Rooms to emphasise the multifunctional use of these rooms.
• Consideration of appropriate ventilation strategies to promote the provision of a comfortable environment in the consumer bedroom.
• Updates regarding Seclusion Rooms to emphasize that they are being eliminated in some jurisdictions and where they are still being provided, the room will be designed to facilitate transition into a consumer-focused room when the practice of seclusion is eventually phased out.
• Updates to the ‘Staff/Consumer Interface’ area to emphasise the importance of direct face to face engagement of staff and consumers without compromising staff safety.
• Clarification regarding the distinction between the ‘Kitchen/Servery’ and ‘Kitchen – Activity/Therapy’ with associated planning and design guidance provided.
• Adjustments to support areas within the SOA including patient property storage, gun safe, medication room and, kitchen/servery.

A thank you is extended to all those who have contributed to the review and update of this document.

Kind Regards,

The AusHFG Team