Psychiatrist supply and demand projections from the Department of Health,Disability and Ageing – The map is not the territory

Abstract

On 19th June 2025, the federal Department of Health, Disability and Ageing released the Psychiatry Supply and Demand Compendium report, ¹ which provides modelled calculations of baseline and projected Australian psychiatrist workforce levels and needs. These models suggest a substantial undersupply. The supply of domestic trainees and overseas-trained psychiatrists merits further study. Career pathways, succession planning, and leadership development need attention. This editorial discusses the implications of the report, by examining the methodology, ² current workforce context, and identifying areas that merit further research. The report projects supply and demand, and needs to be considered in the development of a workforce plan.