Forensic Psychiatrists

Forensic Psychiatry in New Zealand Shape the future of care in a system that supports you. In New Zealand, forensic psychiatry isn't just a job - it's an integrated, full-scope practice defined by clinical breadth and a public health approach. Unlike more siloed international systems, our model allows you to move beyond traditional barriers and contribute to meaningful, system-wide change. You will work across the entire patient pathway, providing longitudinal care at the interface of mental health and justice. The integrated clinical model Our service is built on connection. As a consultant within our national forensic network, you will typically operate across the full continuum of care. Inpatient and rehabilitation: Leading multidisciplinary teams in secure units and overseeing step-down pathways Prison consultation: Collaborative assessment and treatment within correctional environments in partnership with justice teams Court liaison: Providing expert legal reports and psychiatric assessments for the judiciary Community forensic care: Managing risk and supporting the recovery of individuals living in the community A system-wide rebuild: your chance to lead New Zealand is currently strengthening its national forensic mental health capacity. For an incoming clinician, this represents a unique opportunity to: Influence models of care: Play a key role in shaping service development and the evolution of a nationally consistent forensic service Lead and mentor: Step into leadership roles and help shape the next generation of clinicians within a non-hierarchical, collaborative culture Practice culturally informed care: Work within a system that prioritises Māori health and the principles of Te Tiriti o Waitangi, placing whānau (family) and cultural identity at the heart of recovery Why choose New Zealand? A refreshing pace: Bid farewell to bureaucracy and find the balance you deserve. Practise forensic psychiatry meaningfully without the rush, focusing on people rather than targets Professional autonomy: Enjoy more scope, more influence, and more time to do the work well in a system that values your voice Straight to residence: Psychiatrists are on Tier 1 of New Zealand's Green List, making you eligible for a Straight to Residence Visa so you can apply for residency before you even arrive Salary, benefits and leave Salary: The average salary package for Psychiatrists in New Zealand is approximately USD $193,814 (NZD $343,500) Packages comprise a base salary based on experience, plus allowances and superannuation in accordance with the ASMS collective agreement Benefits You’ll receive: an annual continuing medical education (CME) allowance of approximately USD $9,027 (NZD $16,000) paid three‑month sabbaticals every six years your indemnity insurance covered by Health New Zealand your professional fees and subscriptions fully reimbursed complimentary visa and immigration support a tailored relocation package to support your move, if eligible. Leave You’ll get: 6 weeks of annual leave generous discretionary sick leave 12 public holidays, paid at time‑and‑a‑half plus a day in lieu if worked 14 weeks of paid parental leave alongside the Government's 26 weeks Please note that actual packages are negotiated at the time of offer, reflecting your clinical specialty, experience level, and geographic location. What you need to join us To practise here, you must be eligible for registration with the Medical Council of New Zealand (MCNZ). We typically look for qualifications comparable to FRANZCP. #J-18808-Ljbffr