Side by side

Published 1 March 2018

About this guide

This guide, produced by the Office of the Public Advocate, contains step-by-step instructions, an easy English fact sheet, and the supportive attorney appointment form.

The information and forms in this edition have been updated to take into account the implementation of the Medical Treatment Planning and Decisions Act 2016 which came into effect on 12 March 2018.

To download a copy of the Side by side booklet, visit the Office of the Public Advocate website.

Related resources

Supported decision-making in Victoria: an introduction

Guardianship and administration: an introduction

Take control of your future decision-making: an introduction

Guardianship orders

Guardianship orders give a person (called a ‘guardian’) the power to make decisions on another person’s behalf about their personal matters such as where you live, health care and access to services.

Administration orders

Administration orders give a person (called an ‘administrator’) the power to make decisions on another person’s behalf about their finances and associated legal affairs.

Mental health and your rights

Information about voluntary and compulsory treatment and your rights if you are receiving mental health and wellbeing services in Victoria.

Updated 7 July 2023