Focus on Workforce Growth and Challenges
The Royal Australian College of GPs (RACGP) President Dr Michael Wright and RACGP Victorian Chair Dr Anita Muñoz are set to visit regional Victoria this week. They plan to engage with local general practitioners and healthcare teams, highlighting the significant growth in the regional general practice workforce.
During their visit, they will discuss expanding regional training opportunities and directly address the needs of GPs and communities to ensure continued delivery of high-quality care. Dr Wright mentioned, “We’re seeing genuine growth in regional training and workforce, and that’s something to be celebrated.” He also emphasised the importance of listening to GPs and communities about what’s working, what isn’t, and where more support is needed.
Addressing Community Needs
Dr Wright has a personal connection to the area, with family roots in Beaufort and Ararat. These communities have shaped his understanding of the essential role of general practice in regional Australia. He expressed, “This is a return to my family roots.”
Dr Anita Muñoz stressed the need for government support to sustain general practices, especially considering rising operational costs and state taxes. She noted, “General practice is the backbone of community health, yet many practices across regional Victoria are under real strain.”
The RACGP is advocating for stronger state investment in general practice infrastructure and policies to secure access to care in regional and rural areas. Dr Muñoz highlighted the urgency of a payroll tax exemption to protect clinics facing financial pressures.
As part of their visit, the RACGP leaders will engage with Aboriginal community-controlled health services. The focus will be on ensuring policy reflects the lived experiences of these communities, as GPs play a vital role in supporting local populations affected by recent bushfires.
Dr Muñoz pointed out that GPs are often the first point of contact for individuals dealing with the physical and emotional impacts of disasters. She stated, “Regional practices are doing extraordinary work, but they need the state government to recognise the pressures they’re under.”
Last updated: 15 April 2026, 2:49 pm
