Every year, thousands of people across Western Australia find themselves stuck in a healthcare system that’s complex, overwhelming and often deeply distressing. Some struggle for months to get answers. Others can’t access the care they need. Many feel unheard, powerless and alone.

That’s where Health Consumers’ Council WA steps in.

We’re the only organisation in Australia that provides individual advocacy across the entire healthcare sector, from GPs and hospitals, mental health to allied health, across both the public and private systems.

For more than 30 years, we’ve been helping West Australians navigate healthcare when things get complicated.

We hear you. We’re independent. We’re free.

How we help

We help patients, carers and their families to:

• Understand their rights as a patient
• Get the care they need
• Speak up confidentially with an advocate by their side
• Be treated with respect and cultural understanding
• Fix problems so others don’t face the same issues

Beyond individual cases, we drive system-wide change

We identify patterns experieced by health consumers and provide evidence-based input to government decision-makers, helping to remove barriers in WA’s healthcare system. By resolving issues early and advocating for continuous improvement, we aim to strengthen healthcare accessibility, equity and quality for all Western Australians.

How your donation helps

Accessing personal medical records
Peter spent more than a year trying to access his medical records. When he approached our advocate Jenni at Health Consumers Council, a conciliation request was already in progress but moving slowly. Jenni contacted the practitioner directly, reminded them of their obligations and the issue was resolved quickly. Peter finally received his records and was able to move forward with is healthcare journey.

Informed choice in mental health care
Jamie believed she had no choice over her medication due to a Community Treatment Order. Advocate Chrissy checked with the Mental Health Tribunal and found an administrative error. Learning she was actually a voluntary patient empowered Jamie to attend her appointment feeling informed, respected and able to contribute to her own treatment.

Support during a difficult time
With her husband gravely ill, Janice, whose first language is not English, worried she would be pressured into decisions she didn’t fully understand. Advocate Helen explained the hospital process, clarified her rights and helped her prepare. Janice attended the meeting feeling calm, informed and ready to speak up on her husband’s behalf during an emotional and complex time.

Compassion in complex situations
Alex felt anxious about an upcoming hospital admission and uncertain how to explain their needs. Kerrie worked with them on a clear care plan and Sensitive Practice Request, then shared it with hospital staff. This preparation helped everyone understand Alex’s condition and needs, creating a calmer, more respectful experience.