Focusing on Workforce and Practice Sustainability
RACGP President Dr Michael Wright is visiting the Northern Territory this week to address general practice workforce challenges, practice sustainability, and disaster response, alongside RACGP NT Chair Dr Sam Heard.n
While in the Territory, Dr Wright and Dr Heard will meet with local GPs, health services, and community leaders. They will also attend the opening of a new Congress health facility in Alice Springs. The area is facing significant pressures on its GP workforce and access to care.n
The visit coincides with the Federal Government’s announcement of the Single Employer Model, which will support up to 24 full-time equivalent rural generalist trainees. Dr Wright remarked, “It’s encouraging to see a clear focus on getting more GPs into the Northern Territory through the SEM announcement, and any measures that support recruitment into the NT is welcome.”n
He highlighted that addressing GP shortages in the Territory will require sustained, long-term action, including investment in training capacity, supervision, and the viability of practices. He stated, “That means more supervisors, more training posts, and the right supports to make teaching sustainable for practices.”n
Impact of GP Shortages on Remote Communitiesn
Dr Sam Heard discussed the closure of private general practices in remote and regional NT communities, emphasizing the need for reform to support sustainable primary care models. He mentioned that Nhulunbuy, Tennant Creek, and Katherine have recently lost private GP clinics.n
“When private general practice disappears, the liveability of these towns suffers,” Dr Heard explained. He noted the increased pressure on hospitals and the decreased attractiveness of these communities.n
The RACGP advocates for targeted funding and flexible models to address the higher costs and complexity of delivering remote healthcare. Recent flooding has highlighted the essential role of GPs during disasters, affecting areas like Alice Springs and Daly River.n
Dr Wright plans to visit the Batchelor evacuation centre, where displaced residents are currently housed. He emphasised the critical role of GPs in disaster preparation and recovery, acknowledging the efforts of NT GPs during recent floods.n
He added, “Ensuring specialist GPs are included in Regional Disaster Management Committees will better integrate frontline primary care expertise into emergency planning.”
