Based in Melbourne, Victoria, the research efforts of the MHRI were focused on understanding schizophrenia, bipolar and major mood disorders, and Alzheimer's disease.
At that time the Institute specialised in common mental disorders in the community, with a focus on risk factors, prevention and appropriate treatment.
[1] A working party established in 1983 recommended that a major expansion and re-organisation should take place.
Prior to its merger, the Institute occupied a purpose built facility that houses clinical and research laboratories with strong molecular and in-vivo capabilities.
Prior to its amalgamation, the MHRI was a fully accredited as an independent medical research institute by the National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC) and was affiliated with the University of Melbourne, the Royal Melbourne Hospital and Monash University.