Chief Psychiatrist

Eligibility

Open to Everyone

Chief Psychiatrist - SA Health

• Independent statutory leadership role shaping mental health care across South Australia
• High-profile opportunity to influence policy, standards and service delivery
• Work in partnership with stakeholders to drive improvement, uphold rights and foster innovation

THE OPPORTUNITY

SA Health is looking for a Chief Psychiatrist to lead and influence mental health services across the state. As the brand for South Australia\'s health portfolio, SA Health brings together the Department for Health and Wellbeing (DHW), SA Ambulance Service, the Commission on Excellence and Innovation in Health, Preventive Health SA, and ten Local Health Networks. DHW sets the strategic direction for the health system, supports service delivery, drives reform, and leads public health policy and planning. This is an opportunity to contribute at the highest level to a system committed to prevention, early intervention, equity, and excellence in care.

With its blend of social vibrancy, natural beauty, culinary excellence, education and liveability, Adelaide offers a welcoming and well-balanced setting in which to live, learn and thrive. It is one of the world\'s most liveable cities, and South Australia is one of the more affordable places to live and work in Australia.

THE ROLE

The Chief Psychiatrist is an independent statutory officer appointed under the Mental Health Act 2009, with additional responsibilities under the Suicide Prevention Act 2021, Criminal Law Consolidation Act 1935, and the Health Care Act 2008. Reporting to the Minister for Health and Wellbeing and the Chief Executive, SA Health, the role promotes continuous improvement in mental health service delivery, monitors standards of care, and safeguards the rights of consumers and carers.

The position oversees the treatment of voluntary and involuntary patients, the use of restrictive practices, and the administration of mental health legislation. It provides high-level policy advice, issues standards for patient care, and inspects public and private mental health facilities. Leading multidisciplinary teams across safety and quality, policy and legislation, and suicide prevention, the Chief Psychiatrist works closely with clinicians, consumers, carers, government agencies, and non-government organisations to implement reforms and strengthen services.

THE CANDIDATE

A Fellow, or eligible to be a Fellow, of the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Psychiatrists (or equivalent) the successful candidate will need to demonstrate :

• an ability to lead at a senior level in complex, multidisciplinary environments;
• extensive knowledge of contemporary mental health issues;
  
• strong influencing, negotiation and communication skills, combined with clinical credibility and a collaborative leadership style.

For a confidential discussion, please get in touch with :

Janine Hammat

HardyGroup Principal Consultant

M

E. jhammat@

To access the Candidate Information Pack and submit your application via the HG (HardyGroup) website :

The closing date for applications is Sunday, 14 September 2025

The reference number to include in your application is H25_5199

Your application must include :

• Cover letter addressed to the Principal Consultant;
• A written response addressing the key selection criteria;
• An up to date copy of your Curriculum Vitae.

Flexibility Statement

The South Australian public sector promotes diversity and flexible ways of working including part-time. Applicants are encouraged to discuss the flexible working arrangements for this role.

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