With the 2025 Australian federal election called for 3 May, our analysis shows that all major parties are failing those most in need of specialist mental health care. We are advocating for immediate action to address the psychiatry workforce shortage, make specialist care more affordable, and increase funding for child and adolescent mental health services; and I invite you to read our election platform which outlines our key priorities at a high level, as well as our pre-budget submission for greater detail and more specific costings. 

On a positive note, last week the College’s Psychiatry Interest Forum (PIF) hosted the 2025 PIF Retreat in Melbourne. Now in its third year, the PIF Retreats have been highly successful in giving PIF members the opportunity to learn about careers and specialities in psychiatry, and meet with trainees and psychiatrists, some of whom are former PIF members themselves! This year’s retreat was attended by 23 scholarship winners, who were selected from over 180 applications for the fully funded, two-day program. My sincere thanks to President-Elect, Dr Astha Tomar, and all the members who volunteered their time to make this such a valuable experience for attendees.  

I extend my congratulations to all the deserving recipients of the 2025 College awards. The RANZCP awards presented each year are a celebration of our members’ contributions and achievements in psychiatric training, practice and research. I’m proud of our members’ dedication to advancing psychiatry and look forward to honouring their achievements at this year’s College Ceremony in May. 

In other news, the RANZCP 2024 Annual Review and Financial Report are now available. These reports cover the breadth of College activities, achievements and work in 2024. It also includes a snapshot of our membership and highlights the many achievements of our members during the year. Please take the time to read through them, and we welcome your feedback. 

In the lead up to Earth Day next month, the College is hosting a special webinar on 10 April, in partnership with Doctors for the Environment Australia, on Heat and mental ill-health – evidence, patient care and prevention. And for those interested in the connection between art and wellbeing, join us for a webinar on The relationship between art and health: what the evidence tells us on 16 April. Both webinars are free for members, and are also open to the public; so feel free to share with anyone in your network who might be interested.  

And finally, with just over a month to go, excitement is building for this year’s Congress on the Gold Coast. The program is packed with insightful sessions, expert speakers, and opportunities to connect with colleagues and friends. Whether you're looking to deepen your knowledge, exchange ideas, or simply be inspired, this year’s Congress is the place to be. I look forward to seeing you all in May. 

Dr Elizabeth Moore 
RANZCP President