The Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Psychiatrists (RANZCP) NSW Branch extends its deepest condolences to the family and loved ones of the man killed in yesterday’s tragic attack in Merrylands and wishes a full recovery to the two people critically injured.  

Our thoughts are with everyone affected, including bystanders who witnessed the attack and the emergency services personnel who responded. 

“Our thoughts are with the victims, their families and friends, as well as witnesses, first responders, healthcare staff, the clinical teams involved, and the wider community affected by this event,” said Dr Ian Korbel, Chair of the RANZCP NSW Branch. 

“Events of this nature are deeply distressing and can have a significant psychological impact beyond those directly involved. It is common for people to experience shock, anxiety, sleep disturbance, or emotional distress after exposure to traumatic incidents. Seeking timely support from trusted supports or health professionals can make a meaningful difference.” 

Dr Korbel said psychiatrists and mental health clinicians across NSW work every day to support people through crisis and recovery under incredibly difficult circumstances. 

“We also encourage careful, accurate and sensitive reporting and public discourse following such incidents. The vast majority of people living with mental health conditions are not violent. Suggesting otherwise contributes to stigma, increases fear, and can discourage people from seeking treatment and support. 

“As a College, we remain committed to promoting evidence-based understanding of mental health and supporting community wellbeing during difficult times,” Dr Korbel said.

ENQUIRIES: For more information, or to arrange an interview call Dishi Gahlowt 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.