AHPRA Calls for Faster Reform Across Australia's Health Regulation System
08 Jul 2026
Speaking at the Medical Board of Australia's national conference, AHPRA Chief Executive Officer Justin Untersteiner said national boards should review how they operate, reduce unnecessary complexity and work towards greater consistency across Australia.
He said governments have made it clear that they expect the National Registration and Accreditation Scheme to continue evolving. According to Mr Untersteiner, regulators that respond proactively to these expectations are more likely to shape future reforms, while those that do not may have changes introduced on their behalf.
His comments follow the independent Dawson Review, which recommended significant improvements to the National Scheme after finding it needed to respond more effectively to changing risks and challenges. Most of the review's recommendations have now been accepted by Australia's health ministers.
Mr Untersteiner said AHPRA is working to become a more modern regulator that can respond more quickly to the needs of Australia's changing healthcare system. He added that ongoing reform will remain a priority.
A key focus is the National Scheme Strategy, which aims to create a health regulation system that is more responsive, culturally safe and better aligned with community needs. The strategy also supports stronger harm prevention, improved healthcare for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, and a sustainable health workforce.
Mr Untersteiner said health ministers have also asked jurisdictions to examine whether some smaller national boards could be combined into multi-profession boards to improve efficiency and consistency.
He said simplifying governance and decision-making will help the National Scheme respond more effectively to the increasing volume and complexity of regulatory matters across the health sector.
Mr Untersteiner said AHPRA will continue working closely with governments, healthcare professions and communities to strengthen regulation while supporting Australia's current and future health workforce.
AHPRA Calls for Faster Reform Across Australia's Health Regulation System
Source: newsGP