General practice training in the Australian Capital Territory (ACT) is showing signs of recovery, but persistent challenges remain due to a lack of investment. Despite an increase in GP trainees, the ACT continues to have the lowest GP-to-population ratio among all Australian capital cities, underscoring the need for targeted interventions.
In 2025, 23 future specialist GPs will commence training in the RACGP’s Murrumbidgee and ACT region, accounting for just 44% of the 52 available funded the ongoing challenges in attracting and retaining trainees in the region.
Currently, Canberra has 23% fewer GPs per capita compared to Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane. Even Darwin and Hobart have a higher GP-to-population ratio, making Canberra the capital city with the lowest access to general practitioners.
RACGP NSW&ACT Chair, Dr Rebekah Hoffman, highlighted the need for strategic initiatives to boost GP numbers in the ACT. Dr Hoffman acknowledged the ongoing efforts to expand the GP workforce in the region but stressed that further action is needed to ensure a sustainable future for general practice. She highlighted that greater investment in GP training and financial support, such as programs modeled after Victoria’s successful initiative, are essential for attracting and retaining healthcare professionals in the ACT.
Victoria’s $40,000 incentive program significantly boosted the number of GPs in training by bridging the pay gap between hospital-based doctors and GPs training in the community. Dr Hoffman emphasized that implementing similar measures in the ACT could yield similar positive results.
To address the ongoing shortage, the RACGP recommends:
GPs in training play a vital role in providing care under supervision and are more likely to stay in the areas where they train. Encouraging more trainees to choose Canberra as their training location is crucial for improving long-term healthcare access.
RACGP President, Dr Michael Wright, called on all federal parties to ensure that GP services remain affordable and accessible. Dr Wright emphasized that with an ageing population and increasing chronic health conditions, a robust general practice workforce is crucial. He stressed the need for substantial funding to support the training of an additional 1,500 specialist GPs within the next five years to effectively address the rising healthcare needs across the country.
The RACGP is advocating for:
While progress has been made in GP training in the ACT, much work remains to ensure the region can meet its healthcare demands. Investment in training incentives, retention initiatives, and increased federal support are crucial to addressing the GP shortfall and improving access to primary healthcare services.
For those interested in GP jobs and resources, professional organisations such as the RACGP provide numerous opportunities and support to help build rewarding careers in general practice.
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