Tasmania has seen a significant 57% increase in specialist GP training for 2025, with 47 general practice registrars set to begin their training, up from 30 in 2024. This growth outpaces the national average of 19.8%, highlighting the success of state and federal government initiatives aimed at addressing the state's healthcare needs.
The Tasmanian Government’s commitment to covering up to $100,000 of student debt for up to 40 GPs who train and work in rural and regional areas has played a pivotal role in attracting more trainees. This initiative has contributed to the state's record-breaking intake and is seen as a key driver for workforce expansion in underserved communities.
RACGP Tasmania Chair, Dr Toby Gardner, praised the collaboration between state and federal governments, noting that this growth is a result of smart policies and a supportive training environment.
Dr. Gardner highlighted that the rise in the number of GPs reflects the positive outcomes achievable through collaborative efforts by governments to tackle workforce shortages. He emphasized that financial incentives and robust support for general practice education play a crucial role in ensuring healthcare accessibility across all Tasmanian communities.
Dr Gardner emphasised the importance of rural GPs in sustaining local communities, stating that without accessible primary care, communities face challenges in maintaining their well-being.
With Tasmania having the highest burden of chronic disease in Australia and an ageing population, ensuring a well-distributed GP workforce is crucial. The availability of rural training incentives is helping to address these challenges by attracting young doctors to underserved areas.
The University of Tasmania plays a significant role in producing future GPs, with over a third of its graduates opting for general practice training. This strong educational foundation provides a pipeline of talent that can help meet the state's long-term healthcare demands.
Dr Gardner highlighted the importance of integrating general practice into medical education, stressing that it should be a national priority for all universities.
RACGP President, Dr Michael Wright, underscored the need for continued federal investment to sustain the momentum in GP training across the country.
Dr Wright highlighted the pressing need to expand the GP workforce in response to Australia's ageing population and the increasing prevalence of chronic diseases. He stressed that an additional 1,500 GPs must be trained over the next five years to guarantee that all communities have reliable access to quality healthcare services.
The RACGP is advocating for:
Tasmania's impressive growth in GP training is a testament to the effectiveness of strategic government incentives and strong educational pathways. By continuing to invest in training programs and financial support, Tasmania can serve as a model for other states looking to strengthen their GP workforce.
For those exploring GP jobs and resources, professional organisations such as the RACGP offer extensive support and opportunities for career advancement in general practice.
Tags:
