Funded by the Department of Health Victoria, the grants are awarded to five psychiatrists from across the state to improve leadership capability in the mental health system, support the retention of psychiatrists through reward and recognition of their work within public mental health, and to assist capacity to train and mentor less experienced colleagues.

Dr Arunogiri, a clinical addiction psychiatrist with extensive experience working across alcohol and other drug (AOD) and mental health services, is the only recipient within addiction services to receive the grant. Dr Arunogiri will use the funding to support leadership development over the next 18 months through a range of formal courses in mental health policy and advocacy; personal coaching; and mentoring from a consumer advocate.

Upon receiving the grant Dr Arunogiri said, “I’m honoured and grateful for the recognition of my work and achievements to date, and for the Department’s investment in the addiction workforce through the scheme.” 

For more information about the grants, please visit the Department of Health website.