Mass Resignation of NSW Psychiatrists Signals Public Mental Health Crisis
Around two-thirds of NSW public psychiatrists are resigning over pay disputes and systemic challenges, raising concerns about the future of mental health care in the state.
- Approximately 200 public psychiatrists in New South Wales are set to resign, citing dissatisfaction with pay, working conditions, and systemic underfunding.
- Psychiatrists in NSW earn roughly 30% less than their counterparts in other states, with the government offering a 10.5% wage increase over three years, far below the requested 25% rise in one year.
- The Australian and New Zealand College of Psychiatrists (RANZCP) warns of potentially disastrous consequences for patient care, as nearly 30% of psychiatry positions in NSW are already vacant.
- NSW Premier Chris Minns has criticized the RANZCP for restrictive accreditation processes but has proposed relying more on psychologists and counselors to fill gaps, a plan psychiatrists argue undermines their specialized medical training.
- Mental Health Minister Rose Jackson announced a 10% 'onerous duties allowance' for psychiatrists but acknowledged the sector's issues have worsened over years of neglect and require urgent reform.
The Guardian 
The Sydney Morning Herald 
Australian Broadcasting Corporation 