Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Trainee Forum in Alice Springs

Last month, the College’s Australian Government Funded Training Programs team hosted an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Trainee Forum in Alice Springs, Northern Territory.

The trainee forums are designed to provide Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander trainees with an opportunity to network with each other, build community and connection, and discuss their experiences in the psychiatry training program in a culturally safe space. It also gives the College a valuable opportunity to hear directly from trainees on how we can strengthen our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander supports. 

Twelve Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander trainees attended the forum held at Alice Springs Desert Park. The program, spread over 2 days, was rich, diverse, and engaging. It included presentations on well-being, cultural safety, and exams and assessments and practical skill-building workshops.

Connection to culture and Country was also central to the program. Trainees enjoyed a bush tucker networking dinner and tour of the nocturnal wildlife at the foothills of the MacDonnell Ranges. They were also guided on a cultural tour of the Desert Park, which included a flying bird show, and participated in a reflective yarning circle on red sand Country. 

Day one was facilitated by Dr Marshall Watson, Aboriginal Fellow and Chair of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Mental Health Committee, and Professor Andrew Teodorczuk, Executive Dean of Education, also attended to connect with trainees and hear firsthand about their experiences of the training program.

The Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Psychiatrists has received Australian Government funding under the Australian Government Funded Training Programs to deliver this initiative.