Identifying Research Priorities in Early Psychosis: A Collaborative Approach to Shaping the Future of Early Psychosis Clinical Trials in Australia

INTRODUCTION: Psychotic disorders are major contributors to disability and mortality, disproportionately affecting young people. Despite advances in early psychosis care, there are still barriers to treatment, suboptimal outcomes, and limited therapeutic options. Given limited funding for psychosis research, priority setting that incorporates perspectives from across the sector, but especially those with lived experience, is vital for directing resources. This paper outlines the Australian Early Psychosis Collaborative Consortium's process for identifying priorities to guide early psychosis clinical trial research in Australia. METHODS: Qualitative data were collected via online surveys and stakeholder workshops with people with lived experience, carers, clinicians and researchers. Content analysis was conducted, followed by iterative refinement and ranking of priority research questions across multiple stages. RESULTS: Six broad themes and 55 research questions were identified through both the initial survey and stakeholder consultations, culminating in ten research questions for ranking in the final poll. The top-ranked priority was identifying treatments with the most enduring benefits for individuals with early psychosis. Other priorities included: identifying effective treatments for negative symptoms; addressing trauma in psychosis risk and treatment; focusing on supports for neurodevelopmental conditions; understanding and targeting risk factors to prevent psychosis onset; translation of research findings to clinical care; considerations of cultural diversity; and effective support for people leaving early psychosis services. CONCLUSION: These findings reaffirm the core objective of specialised early intervention for psychosis: to support long-term recovery and improved outcomes. Identified priorities offer direction for future research and resource allocation that reflects diverse stakeholder perspectives.