I have just been reading about the new mental health act for Victoria. It takes effect in July 2014. The are quite a few changes regarding community treatment orders and restrictive practices (among others!). There are also changes regarding greater involvement of carers/families.
Our loved ones can nominate a "primary carer" who will be kept informed when they become unwell. I think a similar system is already in place in NSW?
Anyway, well worth a read. Its on the Victorian Health website.