BREAKING: Psychiatrists in Australia’s largest public health system have just been awarded a 20% pay increase following a critical shortage that has seen over 60 psychiatrists resign. The decision, made by the NSW Industrial Relations Commission on October 27, 2023, aims to address an acute staff crisis that threatens the quality of mental healthcare in New South Wales (NSW).
The commission’s Vice President, David Chin, emphasized the urgent need for this temporary allowance to attract and retain essential staff specialists. “There is an acute shortage of psychiatry staff specialists… which is causing a deterioration in the quality of public healthcare delivered in NSW,” he stated. This pay bump will be effective for the next 12 months and will be incorporated into any future salary negotiations.
This development comes as more than 200 psychiatrists threatened to resign due to ongoing wage disputes, highlighting significant pay disparities compared to other jurisdictions and the private sector. The NSW government has acknowledged that the mental health system has been undercut by funding issues, yet it has resisted calls for a one-off 25% pay rise sought by the union.
As a result of the staffing crisis, over 140 of the 433 public hospital psychiatrist positions in NSW remain unfilled. The reliance on temporary locum doctors has surged, costing the government over $43 million in recruitment fees in the past two fiscal years. This situation has forced some patients with mental health issues into general wards, exacerbating an already critical public health situation.
Mental Health Minister Rose Jackson confirmed that the commission’s decision would be implemented swiftly, although she noted that specific funding had not yet been allocated in the state budget. “We will have to make provision for that and manage that once the commission has made a determination,” she said.
The psychological impact on patients is profound, as many struggle to access the care they need. This pay increase could potentially stabilize the workforce, but the long-term resolution of salary disputes remains uncertain.
As negotiations continue, stakeholders and the public are urged to stay informed about future developments in this pressing issue. For immediate support, individuals can reach out to Lifeline at 13 11 14 or Beyond Blue at 1300 22 4636.
Stay tuned for more updates on this evolving story.
