Objective: To provide an overview of the challenges and opportunities afforded by the practice of psychiatry in the private sector, and in so doing build a rationale for the formation of a formally established network of Australian psychiatrists who meet to advance constructive proposals concerning the private practice of psychiatry, encourage mutual support, and promote this area of psychiatric endeavour.
Conclusions: Private psychiatry has dangers, challenges and many responsibilities, but it also has the potential for relative independence and creative fulfilment. It is desirable that its practitioners support each other and work constructively together in addressing the sorts of issues delineated in the Private Practitioners’ Network's mission statement and objectives.
