The Hon Kristy McBain MP

Member for Eden-Monaro

The Albanese Government continues to boost healthcare access across Eden-Monaro by partnering with the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP) and the Australian College of Rural and Remote Medicine (ACRRM).

Funded through the Government’s Australian General Practice Training (AGPT) program, general practitioner registrars have been successfully placed in Bermagui, Bega, Merimbula, Bombala, and Jindabyne.

This strategic placement of doctors will ensure that residents in these communities have better access to quality medical care when they need it.

The Government provides funding to RACGP and ACRRM, as well as direct payments to GP registrars, supervisors, and training practices.

GP registrars may also be eligible for additional support to cover relocation costs, housing rental assistance and for increased childcare costs.

In some cases, they can access incentives between $5,000 and $45,000 to encourage them to train and work in rural, regional, and remote areas.

This support is a key component of the Albanese Government’s commitment to strengthening the healthcare workforce outside of our big cities.

The Government is also waiving HECS fees for doctors and nurse practitioners that work in rural and remote areas for five years and providing $320 per week to nursing and midwifery students during their mandatory practical placements.

Quotes attributable to Member for Eden-Monaro, Kristy McBain:

“We understand how crucial local access to a doctor is, which is why we are funding on-the-job training to doctors to become GPs to address critical gaps.

“The Australian General Practice Training Program is crucial for ensuring that regional communities like those in Eden-Monaro have access to high-quality healthcare and skilled local doctors.

“I'll continue working with the community to advocate for a strong healthcare system in Eden-Monaro.”