The Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Psychiatrists (RANZCP) welcomes Parliament’s decision to reject the Treaty Principles Bill, in line with overwhelming public sentiment after nearly 90% of submissions opposed the Bill. 

The RANZCP New Zealand National Committee, Tu Te Akaaka Roa, had strong concerns about the Bill attempting to redefine Te Tiriti o Waitangi in a way that risked eroding Māori rights and undermining efforts toward health equity. 

Dr Hiran Thabrew, Chair of Tu Te Akaaka Roa, said, “By supporting tino rangatiratanga and backing Māori-led, tikanga-based approaches to care, we will be making sure every New Zealander can access safe, culturally appropriate care that meets their needs, respects their right to self-determination and allows them to lead healthy and fulfilling lives—on par with everyone else.” 

The College reaffirms its commitment to upholding Te Tiriti o Waitangi and continuing to work alongside Māori towards a mental health system that is equitable, culturally responsive, and grounded in tino rangatiratanga. 

For media inquiries, please contact: Dishi Gahlowt on +61 437 315 911 or email media@ranzcp.org  

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

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.