The new President of the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Psychiatrists (RANZCP), Dr Elizabeth Moore, has outlined an ambitious agenda to improve the mental health care for people in Australia and New Zealand.

“My number one priority as President will be advocating for the role of psychiatry in meeting Australia’s and New Zealand’s current and future mental health care needs,” said Dr Moore.

“I will endeavor to amplify the voices of our members within the community and within governments, at all levels. Psychiatry must have a seat at the table.”

In assuming the role at the RANZCP 2023 Congress in Perth, Dr Moore thanked outgoing President Associate Professor Vinay Lakra for his service and contribution.

“As President-Elect, I have been privileged to work closely with Associate Professor Lakra, and I would like to sincerely thank him for his leadership during his tenure.”

“I’ve valued working alongside his passion, energy, and heartfelt dedication to the College, its staff, our members and the community.”

Dr Moore has emphasised that diversity, equity and excellence will be the bedrock of College advocacy and leadership. 

“The community deserves access to the best possible care, driven by excellence, evidence and equity,” said Dr Moore.

“Social determinants of health, cultural and linguistic diversity, and gender equity are critical factors for meeting the community’s mental health care needs.”

Dr Moore congratulated Dr Astha Tomar on her election to the position of President-Elect.

“Dr Tomar’s momentum, drive and focus will be an asset to the College’s advocacy agenda. 

“Significantly, Dr Tomar will be the first woman of Indian heritage to be elected President of any psychiatry specialist college in the world, outside of India, and any specialist medical college of Australia. 

Despite Australia and New Zealand facing significant challenges with natural disasters, COVID-19 pandemic recovery and economic uncertainty, Dr Moore remains focused on reform.

“This is a challenging period in our regions’ history, and if anything, reinforces the need to bolster mental health care and leadership. 

“I look forward to working with members, governments, the sector, community, carers, and importantly, those with lived experience, to ensure everyone can access the best care, where they need it and when they need it,” said Dr Moore. 

For all other expert mental health information visit Your Health in Mind, the RANZCP’s consumer health information website.

ENQUIRIES: For more information, or to arrange an interview call Lex Guider on +61 423 444 907 or RANZCP media on +61 437 315 911, or email media@ranzcp.org.

The Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Psychiatrists is a membership organisation that prepares medical specialists in the field of psychiatry, supports and enhances clinical practice, advocates for people affected by mental illness and advises governments and other groups on mental health care. For information about our work, our members or our history, visit www.ranzcp.org.

In Australia: If you or someone you know needs help, contact Lifeline on 13 11 14 or www.lifeline.org.au or the Suicide Callback Service on 1300 659 467 or www.suicidecallbackservice.org.au.

In New Zealand: If you or someone you know needs help, contact Lifeline NZ on 0800 543 354 or www.lifeline.org.nz or the Suicide Crisis Helpline on 0508 828 865 or www.lifeline.org.nz/suicide-prevention.