MHCAA is the only agency with a prime focus on provision of support for families, carers and friends with mental health issues.  This is based on the principles of mutual self help and support to build the capacity of families and improve their quality of life.

MHCAA continues to do great work at local, regional and State levels throughout Australia in providing support for families and others caring for people with mental illness. Counselling, mutual support groups, phone support, information and referral services for families are the common core of MHCAA support services nation-wide.

Each State and Territory service has also developed its own characteristic pattern of other support and advocacy services.  Details of these  services in each State and Territory are available from the relevant Mental Health Carers Arafmi Australia member.