Over recent months I have written about the importance of governance reform and the opportunity before us to strengthen accountability, clarify decision-making, and support the delivery of our strategic priorities. 

Governance reform is a long-term undertaking. It requires careful consideration of how we organise our work, how decisions are made, and how the College remains responsive to members while meeting its responsibilities as a contemporary professional organisation. 

An important step in this process was the creation of an Independent Director position on the Board. This position was established to bring an external and independent perspective to our decision-making and strengthen the Board’s capacity to guide the College through a period of significant change and opportunity.  

I’m delighted to announce that Professor Andrew Stripp AM has been appointed as the RANZCP’s inaugural Independent Director.

Professor Stripp is a highly respected healthcare leader with an outstanding track record in governance and strategic leadership. 

The Board was impressed by the calibre of candidates who expressed interest in the role, which reflected the standing of the College and the significance of our mission. I would like to thank all applicants for their interest and acknowledge those involved in the recruitment process. 

It is especially fitting to welcome Professor Andrew Stripp AM following his recent recognition as a Member of the Order of Australia in the 2026 King's Birthday Honours.

I’m also pleased to congratulate the following RANZCP members who were recognised in this year’s honours list:

Read more about these extraordinary members.

These honours reflect the extraordinary contributions of our members to psychiatry, mental health care and the broader community. On behalf of the College, I extend my warm congratulations and thank them for their dedication to improving the lives of people experiencing mental illness.

Dr Astha Tomar
President