With a career defined by advocacy and an unwavering commitment to junior doctors, Dr Chris Dickie will lead GPRA as its new President into a promising new chapter, championing the rights and needs of GP registrars across Australia.
For Dr Dickie, becoming GPRA President is both a privilege and a profound responsibility.
“The GPRA President has a great responsibility to our membership,” he says.
“It’s an opportunity to meet more members, understand their needs, and push for meaningful change at local, State, Federal, and College levels.
“I am eager to continue advocating for the issues that matter most to our members.”
Chris brings to the role a wealth of experience in clinical practice, research, and advocacy.
As a GP registrar working in New South Wales, he has first-hand knowledge of the challenges registrars face.
Coupled with his background in medical advocacy through the British Medical Association (BMA), his experience equips him to lead GPRA with clarity and resolve.
Chris recognises GPRA’s unique role as the independent peak body for GP registrars in Australia, offering a distinctive voice within the primary healthcare landscape.
“With its independence, GPRA can advocate effectively for what GP registrars want and need throughout their training journey,” he explains.
“Through relationships with governments, colleges, and stakeholders, we work to create accountability and develop resources that improve the GP training experience.
“It is vital for GPRA to have a seat at the table, maintaining strong relationships while being unafraid to speak up for our members.”
Chris’s presidency will focus on addressing key concerns voiced by GPRA members.
“Base rate parity with our hospital registrar colleagues, alongside access to study and parental leave, are priorities,” he says.
“Equally important is tackling the barriers in training, such as the placement process, exams, and dispute resolution, to ensure a smoother journey for registrars.”
Chris is particularly encouraged by the progress made during recent National Terms and Conditions for the Employment of Registrars (NTCER) negotiations.
“These were steps in the right direction, and I’m eager to continue improving the terms, conditions, and overall GP journey,” he says.
Another key focus will be enhancing GPRA’s educational offerings.
“We want to hear from our members about what additional resources they need that they don’t feel they’re getting elsewhere,” he explains.
Chris’s path to GPRA presidency is built on years of dedication to improving the working lives of junior doctors.
His journey began in Scotland, where he graduated from the University of St Andrews and the University of Glasgow.
After completing his training in the Glasgow area, he moved to Canberra in 2018, working in emergency medicine and medical administration before commencing GP training in 2022.
His advocacy efforts include roles on the Canberra Region Medical Education Council (CRMEC) and previously with the RACGP National Faculty of GPs in Training.
In 2025, he will complete an Academic Post at the Australian National University (ANU) and continue in a research role, further cementing his contributions to medical education, while also becoming eligible for RACGP Fellowship.
Beyond his professional pursuits, Chris enjoys playing ultimate frisbee, photography, and traveling when time permits. However, his focus remains steadfast on the future of general practice and the wellbeing of GP registrars.
As Chris embarks on this new chapter as GPRA President, he invites registrars, students, and New Fellows to reach out and share their concerns, ideas, and aspirations.
“I’m here to listen, learn, and lead. Together, we can ensure that GP training and general practice – continue to thrive.”
