04 May 2025

 The election outcome is proof Australians want a strengthened healthcare system, and the Royal Australasian College of Physicians (RACP) is urging the government to address the nation’s chronic shortage of medical specialists.

RACP President, Professor Jennifer Martin, congratulated the Albanese Labor Government on its re-election and encouraged them to look beyond existing commitments on GPs and primary care.

“The election outcome underscores the public’s support for an accessible health system that works for all Australians,” Professor Martin said.

“We welcome the re-elected Albanese Labor Government and congratulate them on their commitment to improving Australia’s healthcare system.

“During the election campaign, the Government made significant commitments to increase GP numbers and strengthen primary care services.

“Improving access to GPs is a vital first step, however, it alone won’t address the changing health needs of Australians, especially as the Australian population ages and we see more and more complex and chronic conditions.

“The Government must follow their necessary and welcome measures to improve GP access with an equally concerted effort to help bolster access to specialist medical care.

“Healthcare was a key issue this election, with many voters wanting urgent action on wait times and other access issues.

“We have an opportunity to build on the momentum for comprehensive healthcare reforms by taking the steps necessary to address the shortage of medical specialists and make healthcare more accessible for patients.

"GPs provide essential primary care, and specialists complement this care for patients with complex conditions.

“Over sixty per cent of Australians have chronic health conditions [1], and many need access to specialist medical care regularly. This is especially true for older patients.

“As Australians live longer, the demand for specialist medical care will only grow, and we must take urgent steps to ensure that every Australian can access the healthcare they need – whether it is primary care through GPs or specialist medical care,” Professor Martin said.

The RACP is calling on the Government to implement key reforms aimed at strengthening the specialist workforce, including:

• More funding for public hospitals, which serve as the training grounds for medical specialists, so we are training enough specialists for the future

• Funding rural specialist training pathways to attract and retain doctors in regional areas

• Making telehealth more accessible with the return of specialist telephone consultations

• Introducing incentive payments for specialists who teach and supervise in rural areas

• Expanding the Specialist Training Program to support more doctors training in areas of need

“We look forward to working with the re-elected Federal Government to develop practical, effective solutions that ensure all Australians have equitable access to the specialist care they deserve,” Professor Martin said.

[1] Australian Institute of Health and Welfare – Chronic conditions