Skip to main content

My healthcare rights

What are my rights as a patient?

The Australian Charter of Healthcare Rights describes what consumers, or someone they care for, can expect when receiving health care.

These rights apply to all people in all places where health care is provided in Australia. This includes public and private hospitals, day procedure services, general practice and other community health services.

All members of our community who access services through Barwon Health will be afforded their healthcare rights.

Healthcare rights Mob healthcare rights poster

Download the Healthcare Rights PDF.

Download the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Healthcare Rights PDF.

If you do not feel you were afforded your healthcare rights, when you, or someone close to you, was a patient, you are welcome to contact our Consumer Liaison Office. Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or call (03) 4215 1251 or register your experience here.

Access the Australian Charter of Healthcare Rights in Braille

A Braille version of the Australian Charter of Healthcare Rights can be accessed by emailing

This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Access the Australian Charter of Healthcare Rights for people with Cognitive Impairment

Charter of Healthcare Rights - Cognitive Impairment

About Healthcare Rights for people with Cognitive Impairment

Access the Australian Charter of Healthcare Rights – LGBTIQA+

LGBTQI - My Healthcare Rights

Access the Australian Charter of Healthcare Rights in languages other than English

Advocacy contacts for Barwon South West Area

Please click here to download a list of advocacy contacts for the Barwon South West region. 

Last Modified: Monday, 17 July 2023