General Practice Registrars Australia (GPRA) has welcomed the Federal Government’s approval of the GP Training Incentive Payments Policy, a major milestone in improving conditions for GP registrars and strengthening Australia’s primary care workforce.

The new GP Training Incentive Payments, commencing from Semester One 2026, will provide eligible GP registrars on Commonwealth-funded training pathways with:

• a $30,000 salary incentive when they commence community general practice training
• funding for up to five days of study leave per year, and
• up to 20 weeks of parental leave (primary caregivers) and two weeks (secondary caregivers).

GPRA President Dr Chris Dickie said the announcement delivers on something GPRA has been advocating for over many years — fairer support for GP registrars as they transition from hospital to community-based GP training.

“This is a historic step forward for general practice training, and something GPRA has fought hard for on behalf of our members,” Dr Dickie said.

“GP registrars have previously faced major financial barriers when moving into community placements — this investment helps acknowledge the critical role they play in Australia’s healthcare system.

“We’re pleased to see years of advocacy from GPRA and others in the sector result in real, tangible reform, and I praise the Federal Government for their action on this crucial policy.

“These incentives recognise that choosing general practice or rural generalism is not just a career decision — it’s a commitment to community, continuity, and patient care no matter where patients live.

“By providing greater financial security during key stages of training — whether transitioning into practice, preparing for exams, or starting a family — this policy will help ensure more doctors choose and stay in general practice.”

Dr Dickie said the incentives are designed to bridge the gap between hospital-based and community-based specialty training and improve access to quality primary care for patients across Australia.

GPRA also acknowledged the Department of Health, Disability and Ageing for working collaboratively with training stakeholders — including ACRRM, RACGP, RVTS, GPSA and GPRA — to bring this long-advocated reform to life.

The GP Training Incentive Payments Policy is now available on the Australian Government’s GP Training Incentive Payments webpage.