This series is dedicated to honouring the pioneering women who have shaped the history of RANZCP as past presidents. Out of the 55 individuals who have held this esteemed position, only nine have been women — and with a female president currently at the helm, we reflect on the legacy of their trailblazing contributions. Each episode delves into the personal stories, challenges and triumphs of these pioneers, offering valuable inspiration and insights for the next generation of women in psychiatry as we continue working towards great gender equity.

In this episode, Dr Padmini Howpage interviews Dr Elizabeth Moore, who has recently completed her term as president. They reflect on Dr Moore’s formative years, her entry into psychiatry, and the challenges she faced as a woman in a predominantly male profession. The conversation also explores key topics such as the ‘Yes’ campaign for Aboriginal representation, the importance of cultural safety in mental health, and the role of epigenetics in psychiatric care. Dr Moore also shares her insights on leadership, work-life balance and the future of mental health advocacy, highlighting the importance of collaboration and cultural understanding in advancing mental health care. 

Dr Elizabeth Moore served as the president of the RANZCP from 2023 to 2025. Born in Malaya and educated in England and Australia, she completed her medical degree at the University of Adelaide before attaining Fellowship of the RANZCP in 1990. 

Dr Moore has extensive experience across public and private hospital and community settings. She has held both clinical and administrative roles in psychiatry in South Australia, New South Wales, Victoria and Western Australia. She is also the inaugural ACT Coordinator-General of the Office of Mental Health and Wellbeing. 

Dr Padmini Howpage is the Clinical Director at Mind Connections Specialist Health Services, a Sydney-based private practice. She is also the author of two books – Mindful Coco and 7 Magic Minutes for Today – championing mindfulness across generations. 

A dedicated mentor and community leader, Dr Howpage chairs two charities – the Mind Connections Foundation and the Women’s Shed – Hills Shire. She founded an annual suicide prevention award for second-year medical students at Western Sydney University. Since 2016, over 700 students have participated, integrating mental health awareness into the curriculum.

Her contributions earned Western Sydney University’s Woman of the West (2019) and multiple Hills Shire Citizen of the Year finalist nominations (2020, 2022, and 2024).

Topic suggestion:
If you have a topic suggestion or would like to participate in a future episode of Psych Matters, we’d love to hear from you.
Please contact us by email at: psychmatters.feedback@ranzcp.org

Disclaimer:
This podcast is provided to you for information purposes only and to provide a broad public understanding of various mental health topics. The podcast may represent the views of the author and not necessarily the views of The Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Psychiatrists ('RANZCP'). The podcast is not to be relied upon as medical advice, or as a substitute for medical advice, does not establish a doctor-patient relationship and should not be a substitute for individual clinical judgement. By accessing The RANZCP's podcasts you also agree to the full terms and conditions of the RANZCP's Website. Expert mental health information and finding a psychiatrist in Australia or New Zealand is available on the RANZCP’s Your Health In Mind Website.