The 2024-2025 Federal Budget was handed down last week, and unfortunately GPRA is dismayed by its complete disregard for the challenges GP registrars face with the rising cost of living, and how it overlooks the entitlements and benefits that most Australians enjoy. Furthermore, it fails to allocate any funding to expand the general practice workforce pipeline. Despite the increasing demand for GP care, particularly with our ageing population, there is insufficient support to train more GPs. This Budget does little to enhance the appeal the best specialty – General Practice. You can read my full response to the Budget here.
I was delighted to recently attend the National Single Employer Model (SEM) conference in Renmark, South Australia. Engaging with registrars and other key stakeholders about the SEM pilots was invaluable. Their insights and experiences are crucial to GPRAs work. The takeaway so far is that while SEM is an option for some, it may not be suitable for all in the future.
I am also looking forward to representing GPRA and its members at the upcoming inaugural Burning GP event in New South Wales. This event will bring together national leaders and influencers from general practice and government to discuss key issues and chart a more positive trajectory for those working in general practice.
The review and update for the 2025-2027 National Terms and Conditions for the Employment of GP Registrars (NTCER) is well underway. The GPRA Working Group met in May and is collaborating with GPSA to update the NTCER. Our aim is to complete the review and update by July 2024, in time for preparations for Semester 1, 2025. Please stay tuned for further updates and a big thankyou to our members who put their hand up to be part of the GPRA working group.
Exam support for our members is progressing well, and our GPRA Exam Preparation Webinar Series which began last week. Keep an eye out for more GPRA member support events like this in the future.
On a final note, National Reconciliation Week (NRW) (27 May-3 June) is a time for all Australians to learn about our shared histories, cultures, and achievements, and to explore how each of us can contribute to achieving reconciliation in Australia. GPRA fully supports the mantra: Cultural safety is clinical safety.
This means working towards a healthcare system that is inclusive, culturally safe, and respectful of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture.
I think NRW is an excellent opportunity for all of us as health professionals to reflect on our approach towards reconciliation and First Nations health. Check out GPRAs member offer in partnership with AIDA.
I wish you all the best in your exams next month.
Dr Karyn Matterson
GPRA President
Pictured: Dr Karyn Matterson, GPRA President, discussed the Single Employer Model Pilot SA with registrars Dr Jerida Keane and Dr Sinead Turner.
