With the election campaign now in full swing and 3 May fast approaching, we’ve had a busy month responding to regular announcements from both parties. While the most recent pledge of $1 billion toward mental health care is welcome in principle, it misses the mark and risks further fragmenting care. GPs already deliver the majority of mental health care to patients across Australia, and we’ll continue to advocate for a 25% increase in Medicare rebates for GP mental health consultations. We’re also pushing for collaborative, nationally harmonised models for diagnosing and prescribing for conditions such as ADHD. 

Last month I had the pleasure of attending the launch of the Australian General Practice Research Foundation in Sydney. It was a fantastic event and a great opportunity to hear about the innovative and impactful research being conducted in general practice across the country, including by our very own Professor Tania Winzenberg. Together with Professor Mark Nelson, Tania will host a mini research symposium at the RACGP office next month. I strongly encourage anyone with an interest in research to come along. 

We were also well represented at the People Project GP Taster Weekend in St Helens, with Registrar Medical Educator Luke Heathcote flying the flag for the College. The future of general practice is looking bright. 

As we head into what’s likely to be a busy flu season, I hope you all stay well and have the chance to enjoy a well-earned break over Easter. 

Toby Gardner
Chair, RACGP Tasmania