Last updated 1 May 2020

The chief psychiatrist is a psychiatrist appointed by the government whose functions includes:

  • ensuring, as far as possible, that patient’s rights are protected and balanced with the rights of other
  • ensuring that the involuntary assessment and treatment of patients complies with the Mental Health Act 2016 (Qld)
  • facilitating the proper and efficient administration of the Act, and monitoring compliance
  • promoting community awareness and understanding of the Act.

However, the chief psychiatrist does not run authorised mental health services or employ the psychiatrists or other staff who work in them.

The chief psychiatrist is also represented in hearings in the Mental Health Court.