Victims of crime will soon have a greater say in the release of offenders deemed mentally ill.
The NSW State Government has announced changes to the system so a special mental health tribunal will decide when patients should be released.
Mental Health Minister Paul Lynch says community and victim groups will be able to make submissions if they believe a patient's release is dangerous.
“The changes mark a major overhaul of the law in this field.”
“These changes are important as they will make the system for oversight and review, of release of forensic patients more accountable, more transparent and they will provide for the first time in NSW forensic laws recognition of victims.”