The Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Psychiatrists has had a leading role amongst the Australian Medical Colleges in its interest in and advocacy for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Issues. The College interest was founded on the recognition of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander sovereignty and the right for all Australians to experience good mental health and hence the need to redress the inequality in health and mental health status. 

Since 1996, the College has had an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Mental Health Committee which is composed of psychiatrists who have a direct experience of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander mental health as well as Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander members of the community who are involved in mental health service provision and policy development. The Committee advises the College and the greater community directly about issues of importance in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander mental health.