I want to acknowledge National Sorry Day which took place on 26 May. It is a day for all Australians to recognise the grief, trauma and loss suffered by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders and reflect on how we can all play a part in the healing process for our people and nation. 

This week from 27 May to 3 June is National Reconciliation Week – a time for us to learn about our shared histories, cultures, and achievements, and to explore how each one of us can contribute to achieving reconciliation in Australia. The theme, Now More Than Ever, is a reminder to all of us that no matter what, the fight for justice and the rights of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people will and must continue.

Our College understands the importance of reconciliation in Australia and values the reconciliation work led by our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Mental Health Committee. Amongst a number of ongoing initiatives and RANZCP actions, I am proud to have announced our new Innovate Reconciliation Action Plan 2024– 2026 at Congress last week.

At Congress, we officially welcomed the new RANZCP Board for 2024-2025. I congratulate Dr Michelle Atchison, Dr Angelo Virgona and Professor Steve Kisely who are joining the Board this year, as well as look forward to continuing working with returning Board Directors, A/Prof Melanie Turner, Dr Mark Lawrence and Dr Ava Carter, and President-Elect, Dr Astha Tomar. I once again thank Dr Nick O’Connor, Dr Sue Mackersey and Dr Warren Kealy-Bateman for their invaluable contributions during their time on the Board.

It's been a big month across many areas of the College. We are working towards meeting the standards, conditions and recommendations of the 2023 AMC Accreditation Report and submitted a comprehensive report outlining our progress in September 2023. On 30 April 2024, the AMC responded to our report and found that significant progress has been made related to the AMC Standard 1, Context of Training and Education, which has changed status from “does not meet the standard” to “substantially meets the standard”.  The AMC also determined that two other conditions have been satisfied, and agreed that some conditions can be consolidated, and certain timelines extended. Further information is available on the College website and the Accreditation webpage.

The RANZCP Foundation published its 2023 Annual Review showcasing the exciting projects that our members’ generosity has helped to fund. With $275,000 awarded to twelve outstanding new projects, the Foundation is significantly expanding the reach and scope of support to young researchers and the development of our profession.

As a member, a great way to get involved and advance College work is by participating on College committees. Several committees have openings, including the Membership Engagement Committee and Corporate Governance and Risk Committee. Nominations close on 7 June, and I urge eligible members to consider these opportunities.

And finally, while Congress may be over, the College offers a packed calendar of events over the coming months. There’s still time to register for the Section of Perinatal and Infant Psychiatry 2024 Conference in June which includes a family violence psychiatry network workshop. And numerous Branch events such as the Northern Territory Travelling Scholar and the Tasmanian dinner lecture and workshop presented by Prof Dave Coghill. You can stay updated and make the most of these opportunities by visiting our events calendar.

Dr Elizabeth Moore
 RANZCP President