Historic MoU signed between independent GP training peaks

“This MoU signifies a new chapter in both our organisations, clarifying how GPRA and GPSA collaborate to ensure the voices at the coalface of GP training – GPs in-training, supervisors and practice teams – are heard and respected,” said GPRA President Dr Karyn Matterson.

The historic agreement between the two national peaks focuses on strengthening the future of general practice for the benefit of all Australians, highlighting the value of continued independence in the representation of members across both sides of the GP training coin.

“While our members may represent different viewpoints, our shared goal remains unwavering – to sustain viable general practice and ensure Australians continue to have access to quality GPs,” said Dr Matterson.

GPSA Chair Dr Srishti Dutta said that GPRA and GPSA have many points of alignment in their positions on the importance of training experience, quality placements and respective approaches to future-proofing general practice.

“This is a case of two mature organisations recognising the improvements our separate memberships can drive when we work together,” said Dr Dutta.

The MoU jointly signed this week by GPRA and GPSA represents more than 30,000 medical students, GP trainees, supervisors, training practice owners, and administrators.

Both organisations reiterated the need for the two peaks to remain independent of each other outside the areas of mutual focus specified in the MoU.

“Our ultimate strength as national peaks is our ability to represent the needs of our individual member cohorts, but nothing truly exists in isolation and few see this so clearly as the individuals we represent,” said Dr Dutta.

“This MoU throws a spotlight on the fact today’s GPRA members are the GPSA members of tomorrow, and the only way we will shape general practice into the specialty our future GPs are looking for is by working collaboratively toward that vision.”

Under the MoU, a framework has been agreed upon for GPRA and GPSA to collaborate on:

• updating the National Terms and Conditions for the Employment of Registrars (NTCER)
• increasing attraction and retention in the GP specialty by driving future workforce pipeline peer to peer and placement improvements
• mutually beneficial joint advocacy for GPRA and GPSA members, and
• joint sector representation, particularly in areas such as employment and education reform.

Drs Matterson and Dutta said the MOU establishes guiding principles of collaboration, transparency, and accountability.

“Both organisations are committed to regular communication, respecting member confidentiality, members’ views, and upholding the highest standards of professionalism,” Dr Matterson said.

Dr Dutta explained the relevance of the MoU to the two peaks’ key tasks for 2024.

“We now have a clear roadmap for this year’s review and update of the NTCER, and how we will deliver advice on the rollout of Single Employer Model pilots, and actively participate in national policy reforms,” said Dr Dutta.

Dr Matterson said now was the time to capitalise on GPRA and GPSA’s expertise and the experience of its members, particularly as communities are working to address demand and supply of GPs and testing new employment models.

“Between us, we have amassed more than 40 years of professional knowledge and experience in supporting GP training and negotiating employment conditions best suited to the unique training context of the general practice clinical learning environment,” said Dr Matterson.

She said the signing of the MoU signifies a historic moment for the future of general practice in Australia, heralding a collaborative era focused on ensuring the ongoing provision of quality healthcare services across the country.

“Drawing on the rich history of our organisations and the breadth of our expertise, under this MoU, GPRA and GPSA will continue to connect with all levels of government and the sector to elevate our members’ views,” said Dr Matterson.

“We will work together to advise on the future of general practice and what it takes to develop the next generation of future GPs.

“Both GPRA and GPSA want a continued focus on quality training, supported placements, and access to gold star primary health care for patients.”