The RANZCP 2026 Congress was a highlight for our Psychiatry team. Set against a fantastic backdrop and filled with thoughtful discussion, it was a genuine pleasure to meet so many psychiatrists in person, from those early in their careers to highly experienced consultants, as well as reconnect with familiar faces we have worked with over many years.
There is something powerful about stepping away from emails and phone calls and having time for real, unhurried conversations. Across the week, our stand became a space for honest reflection about careers, priorities and how Psychiatry work fits into life more broadly. It was also clear that interest in Telehealth Psychiatry roles continues to grow, with more doctors exploring remote and online work as a meaningful and sustainable part of their career.
At the congress, we asked psychiatrists one simple question through a short, interactive poll at our stand:
The responses sparked some of the most meaningful conversations we had all week. While every doctor’s situation is unique, three themes came through consistently.
Flexibility was the clear frontrunner. For many psychiatrists, flexibility means different things at different stages. For some, it is control over hours or the ability to reduce on-call commitments. For others, it is location, the option to work regionally, remotely or via telehealth, or the freedom to move between locum and permanent work as life changes. The rise of telehealth has opened up new possibilities here, and we are seeing increasing numbers of doctors actively seeking out Telehealth Psychiatry positions as a way to achieve that flexibility without compromising on clinical quality.
Alongside flexibility, Psychiatrists also spoke about the importance of meaningful, varied clinical work. Many shared a desire to maintain professional interest and avoid burnout by shaping roles that allow for diversity in caseloads, settings or models of care. Variety was often linked to longevity and satisfaction in the profession.
The third theme that featured strongly was income security and stability. While flexibility is highly valued, so too is the reassurance that work arrangements provide financial confidence, particularly as personal responsibilities evolve over time.
What stood out most was not just the poll results themselves, but the conversations they opened up. The poll gave Psychiatrists a starting point, and from there we heard stories about changing priorities, lessons learned over the past few years and reflections on what sustainable careers in Psychiatry really look like.
Some doctors were actively exploring new opportunities. Others were not looking to move at all, but appreciated the chance to sense-check their thinking and talk through options without pressure. These conversations reinforced something we strongly believe at Wavelength. Career discussions work best when they start with listening.
The congress venue itself added to the experience. With space to pause, talk and reflect, it created the right environment for meaningful connection. It was wonderful to meet Psychiatrists we had not previously worked with, as well as reconnect with doctors and clients we know well. Those in-person catch-ups reminded us how valuable long-term relationships are in medical recruitment.
The insights from RANZCP 2026 reaffirmed what we see every day in our work. There is no single definition of a good Psychiatry role. What matters most changes over time, and careers are strongest when they are built around individual priorities. As telehealth continues to mature as a mode of care delivery in Australia, it is becoming an increasingly important option for Psychiatrists seeking flexible, location-independent work arrangements.
Thank you to everyone who took the time to stop by, share their perspective and be part of the conversation. We look forward to staying connected.
If flexibility, meaningful work, Telehealth opportunities or stability are top of mind for you right now, our Psychiatry team is always happy to have a confidential, no-obligation conversation. Get in touch.
Whether you are actively considering a change or simply thinking ahead, we are here to help you explore options that genuinely fit where you are.