Why Australia Needs More Psychiatrists – And Why UK Psychiatrists Should Seriously Consider Making the Move
17 Jul, 20257 mins
Australia is in the midst of a mental health crisis—not just in terms of demand, but in the workforce available to meet it. One of the most pressing concerns is the shortage of psychiatrists across the country, especially in regional and remote areas. If you're a psychiatrist in the UK holding a Certificate of Completion of Training (CCT), now is the perfect time to consider relocating. Here’s why.
The Psychiatry Shortage in Australia: What’s Going On?
Australia’s mental health system is under strain. With rising rates of anxiety, depression, substance use disorders, and the long-term impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, demand for psychiatric care has never been higher.
And yet, the workforce isn’t keeping pace. According to the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Psychiatrists (RANZCP):
- Many regions have fewer than one psychiatrist per 100,000 people.
- Rural and regional areas are critically underserved, with long wait times and limited specialist access.
- Psychiatry training programs are not producing enough graduates to meet demand.
This shortage is impacting both the public and private sectors, leaving many Australians without timely, effective care—and placing enormous pressure on the existing psychiatric workforce.
Psychiatry in Australia: How the Profession Works
Psychiatrists in Australia are medical doctors who have completed a medical degree, a general internship, and a 5-year specialist training program under the supervision of the RANZCP. Most psychiatrists work in:
- Public hospitals and community mental health services
- Private practices
- Telepsychiatry (especially for rural areas)
- Academic or research settings
Subspecialties include child and adolescent, forensic, old age, addiction, perinatal, and more.
Australian psychiatrists often enjoy flexible working conditions, high demand, and competitive remuneration—particularly in private practice or locum roles.
How Psychiatry in Australia Differs from the UK
There are key differences between the two systems:
Aspect | Australia | UK |
Training | 5 years post-internship (via RANZCP) | Core Training (CT1–CT3) followed by Specialty Training (ST4–ST6) |
Regulator | RANZCP + AHPRA | GMC + Royal College of Psychiatrists |
Scope | Broader practice across inpatient, community, private, and rural telehealth | Mostly NHS-based practice with subspecialty focus |
Workload | Typically fewer patients/day and better work-life balance | High NHS caseloads, burnout risk |
Pay | Often higher, especially in private or locum work | NHS banding, often lower in comparison |
Fast-Track Your Move: The Expedited Specialist Pathway
Here’s the good news for UK-trained psychiatrists:
The RANZCP now offers an Expedited Specialist Pathway for psychiatrists with a CCT in the UK. This process acknowledges the comparable standards of training between the UK and Australia, significantly reducing the bureaucratic burden.
What Does the Pathway Involve?
- Assessment of comparability by the RANZCP (usually paper-based)
- Reduced documentation requirements
- Often no supervised practice period required
- Streamlined AHPRA registration process
- Eligible for Medicare provider numbers (essential for private practice)
In other words, the pathway allows UK psychiatrists to register and start working in Australia much faster than before.
Why UK Psychiatrists Should Consider Australia
Here are some compelling reasons to make the move:
✅ Work-Life Balance
Australia is known for its relaxed lifestyle, shorter working hours, and emphasis on well-being. No more 12-hour shifts and endless on-calls.
✅ Better Pay
Whether you're in public or private, Australian psychiatrists typically earn more than their UK counterparts—especially if you go private or locum.
✅ Diverse Opportunities
Work across metro hospitals, remote Aboriginal communities, or modern private clinics. Plus, telepsychiatry offers unique flexibility.
✅ Global Recognition
Your UK training is highly respected in Australia, and with the expedited pathway, it's easier than ever to transfer your skills.
✅ Lifestyle Perks
Think beaches, sunshine, great food, vibrant cities, and national parks. Not to mention, family-friendly cities and top-tier education options for children.
Final Thoughts: Now is the Time
Australia’s psychiatry workforce needs skilled, passionate professionals. If you're a UK-trained psychiatrist with a CCT, this is a rare opportunity: a country that needs you, a system that recognises your qualifications, and a pathway that makes relocation easier than ever.
If you're ready for a career change that improves your quality of life and has real impact, Australia is calling.
Interested in making the move?
Start by sharing your CV with aus@bdiresourcing.com and one of our team will be able to guide you on the necessary steps.
