25 Years of GPRA

Dr Melanie Smith: Q and A

Former GPRA President, now Chair of the Adelaide Primary Health Network

How and when were you involved with GPRA?
I started GP training in 2013 and became involved with GPRA shortly after, stepping into a Registrar Liaison Officer (RLO) role in 2015 with Sturt Fleurieu. I continued in that capacity through the transition to GPEX, while also serving on GPRA’s Advisory Council.

At the end of 2016, I was elected GPRA President and served in the role across 2017 and 2018, before remaining on the Board as Immediate Past President in 2019. During this time, I also worked as a Registrar Advisor, supporting trainees more directly. Overall, my involvement spanned a number of roles across advocacy, governance, and member support during a significant period of change in GP training. 

What did you learn through GPRA that has stayed with you and shaped your career or leadership journey?
My time with GPRA gave me a deep understanding of the complexities and politics of GP training. I gained insight into the various drivers at play – balancing workforce needs, training requirements, and the competing priorities of different stakeholders across the sector.

One of the most defining experiences was the 2018 NTCER negotiations, which were particularly challenging. There were significant difficulties finding common ground, and it highlighted just how critical fair training conditions are – especially at a time when applications to GP training were declining and concerns about remuneration and conditions were growing.

Beyond advocacy, GPRA sparked my interest in governance and policy. It taught me a great deal about not-for-profit leadership and board responsibilities, which has since shaped my career. I’ve continued in governance roles, including now serving as Chair of the Adelaide Primary Health Network.

Importantly, GPRA also connected me with an incredible network of people across general practice and the broader health sector. Many of those relationships have become lasting professional connections and mentorships. It was an invaluable experience that ignited my passion for advocacy and continues to influence my work today. 

Looking back, how would you describe GPRA’s evolution as an organisation over the past 25 years?
GPRA has always been an evolving organisation, adapting alongside changes in how GP training is delivered and what registrars need.

What has remained constant is the importance of GPRA as an independent voice. It is not aligned with government, colleges, or training providers, which allows it to genuinely represent the interests of GP trainees. That independence is critical.

Over time, GPRA has also expanded its scope, particularly in recognising and advocating for non-AGPT trainees – a group that has historically lacked representation but forms a vital part of the general practice workforce.

At the same time, the organisation faces unique challenges, particularly the constant turnover of members as registrars progress through training. This creates a continual cycle of rebuilding knowledge and leadership. Despite this, GPRA has remained resilient, adapting its focus, funding, and priorities to continue supporting and advocating for future GPs. 

In 25 words or less, what should the next 25 years look like for GPRA?
A strong, independent voice championing fair training conditions, supporting a diverse GP workforce, and ensuring general practice remains an attractive, sustainable and respected career.

If you could give one piece of advice to today’s future GPs, what would it be?
General practice is what you make it – and never lose sight of your values.

Finish this sentence: “GPRA’s impact on general practice in Australia has been … “… foundational in giving GP trainees a strong, independent voice and shaping fairer, more sustainable training and workforce outcomes.

 

About GPRA
General Practice Registrars Australia (GPRA) is the national independent voice for future GPs in Australia (www.gpra.org.au

Note: The views shared in GPRA’s 25th anniversary interviews reflect the personal experiences and perspectives of each contributor and do not necessarily represent the views of General Practice Registrars Australia.