National Reconciliation Week, from 27 May to 3 June, is an opportunity for all of us to consider how the themes of reconciliation resonate in our daily work and through the systems in which we practise. Reconciliation carries particular significance in mental health care, where the impacts of intergenerational trauma, displacement and inequity continue to be experienced by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. National Reconciliation Week asks us to recognise the strength, leadership and knowledge that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities bring to healing and wellbeing, and consider how psychiatry can contribute to healing and equity through culturally safe and responsive care.

These same themes emerged during the Rural Psychiatry Training Pathways social event, where guests heard from Wurundjeri Elder Uncle John Terrick and Mr Ernie Dingo AM. Their reflections on truth-telling, connection and cultural identity resonated deeply with attendees. Mr Dingo spoke about the importance of respecting the people who came before us and the simple acts – like sharing a cup of tea or cooking a meal for someone – that can bridge disciplines and cultures. It was a reminder that care often begins with humility and genuine curiosity about another person’s story.

The importance of connection was evident at the recent PIF Retreat held in Gadigal Country Sydney. Bringing together medical students and junior doctors from across Australia, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander members and participants from rural areas, the retreat reflected the future of our profession in encouraging ways. Participants engaged with psychiatrists working across a wide range of subspecialties and explored the many career pathways that psychiatry can offer. What stood out most was the enthusiasm of attendees to approach psychiatry with openness, compassion and curiosity.

Supporting the next generation of psychiatrists is one of the College’s most important responsibilities. The recent member profile on Dr Yoon Kwon Choi offers a glimpse into the realities of contemporary training, balancing clinical demands with personal wellbeing. His observations about making space for different voices within multidisciplinary teams captures the qualities that strengthen our profession. It is encouraging to see the next generation of psychiatrists shaping a culture that values collaboration and reflective practice.

The Rural Champions initiative continues to highlight the work being undertaken across rural Australia and the importance of ensuring these pathways remain sustainable into the future. Dr Lara North’s leadership in rural mental health demonstrates compassion, collaboration and a commitment to supporting holistic, individualised care.

Research and innovation are central to improving outcomes for the people we serve. I congratulate Dr Catherine McHugh, recipient of the 2025 Early Research Career Grant. Her work to develop a lifestyle program for young people taking psychotropic medication demonstrates the practical thinking that is needed across mental health care. Supporting such emerging researchers is vital to ensuring psychiatry continues to evolve in response to changing community needs and new evidence.

And finally, while Congress may be over, there are a range of upcoming events to help you stay connected and continue your professional development throughout the year. You can browse upcoming events and catch-up content on the website.

I am also looking forward to attending the World Psychiatric Association’s World Congress of Psychiatry from 23–26 September in Stockholm, Sweden. It is a privilege for me to represent our College at this important international gathering. The RANZCP greatly values its longstanding relationship with the WPA, and I look forward to connecting with members and colleagues from around the world on the shared challenges and opportunities facing mental health care. 

Throughout this month, I have been reminded that psychiatry is strengthened by people who are willing to learn from one another and to engage with complexity thoughtfully. Across our membership there is an extraordinary depth of compassion and commitment. At a time when mental health systems continue to face significant pressures, those qualities matter enormously. 

Dr Astha Tomar
President