Abstract
Dr John Chalk
As I write this the state of mental health, at least in Australia, seems to be an election issue of significance. The parlous underfunding of mental health in Australia has become one of the points of difference between the political parties. At least to some degree the RANZCP's message has been getting across.
Various interest groups jostle for attention, their program or idea being the way to address the chronic malaises that affect our society. It is imperative that the College take a broader view, articulating the range of mental health issues across the lifespan. We have aged based specialty faculties for good reason.
The challenges of mental health do not stop in the mid twenties and only the most naive would suggest that by tackling that age group alone, would we solve the issues across the lifespan. It is imperative that the College, in addressing these issues even in the heat of an Australian election campaign, be seen to advocate for an inclusive agenda. This perspective is but one of our strengths.
The functions of the RANZCP are however not confined to Australia. We have a central role to play in New Zealand, which is facing different though related issues.
The College has not been strong in addressing policy issues – something as a group the current executive is keen to rectify. Ours being a membership organisation there is clearly a fine line to be walked so as to accurately reflect the ideas of the membership, though at the same time providing leadership and accepting that we are a diverse group. Change cannot occur without a degree of discomfort.
However, beyond this the College must remain focused on its other core business. The introduction of the new training system, the further development of continuing professional development and the reinvigoration of the local branches remain of the greatest importance. Balancing these priorities for the membership as a whole remains of seminal importance.
