The RANZCP Rural Psychiatry Training Pathways (RPTP) team hosted the Victoria Rural Readiness workshop in Shepparton on 18 and 19 July 2025.

The Rural Readiness workshop in Shepparton was an exciting opportunity for psychiatry trainees and Specialist International Medical Graduates (SIMG) to establish and expand the skills necessary to engage in safe rural practice. It was an opportunity for attendees to enhance their professional, clinical and social skills essential for training and practicing in regional, rural and remote Australia.

The workshop started with a Welcome to Country by Uncle Lee Joachim, a proud Yorta Yorta man. Gratifyingly for the participants, Uncle Lee spent much time telling the assembled psychiatrists what brilliant jobs they did and strongly encouraging them to move to rural locations, as his work at the coalface of youth justice means he lives the daily need for more mental health professionals. 

During the day, participants enjoyed interactive presentations from the guest speakers, along with collaborative group activities and networking. 

Here’s what some attendees had to say:

“The social event on the Friday night was an excellent introduction to the conference and everyone attending. The session on the MEQ by Stuart and Fernanda was excellent and very engaging. Overall, the whole program was great.” – Trainee 

“This was a great opportunity for trainees and consultants from across rural areas to network and engage. We don’t get many of these opportunities so would love to see more of these!” – Trainee

“[My favourite part of my experience was the] networking and socialization opportunities that gave a sense of inclusivity and community” – SIMG

The dates and venues for future Rural Readiness workshops are below. Expressions of Interests for workshops will be available progressively though College channels.

• Port Macquarie, New South Wales: 26–27 September 2025 
• Darwin, Northern Territory: 10–11 October 2025 
• Hobart, Tasmania: 6 November 2025 
• Hanhdorf, South Australia: 21–22 November 2025
• Western Australia, Bunbury: 28–29 November 2025
• ACT – trainees in the ACT will have the option to register for the New South Wales Rural Readiness workshop.

If you have any queries, please contact rural@ranzcp.org. 

This initiative received funding by the Department of Health, Disability and Ageing under the Flexible Approach to Training in Expanded Settings Program.