AMA Calls for Better Support for GPs in Fitness-to-Drive Assessments
17 Jul 2026
As part of the National Transport Commission's review of the Assessing Fitness to Drive (AFTD) Standards, the AMA has submitted recommendations aimed at improving how medical fitness-to-drive decisions are made across Australia.
The organisation supports keeping nationally consistent, evidence-based standards while recognising the real challenges GPs face when assessing whether a patient is safe to drive.
According to the AMA, these assessments often involve balancing road safety with a patient's independence, employment, and overall quality of life. The decisions can be particularly difficult when cognitive impairment or uncertain functional ability is involved.
The submission recommends improving access to specialist assessments and on-road driving evaluations, especially for people living in rural and regional communities where these services can be difficult to access.
The AMA also believes healthcare professionals would benefit from additional education, practical guidance, and validated assessment tools that support clinical decision-making. It emphasises that these tools should complement, rather than replace, a GP's professional judgement.
The submission also recognises that discussions about driving ability can affect the doctor–patient relationship and recommends future reforms that are practical, consistent, and focused on both public safety and quality patient care.
Dr Monika Moy will represent the AMA on the National Transport Commission's Assessing Fitness to Drive Review Advisory Group as work on the updated standards continues.
AMA Calls for Better Support for GPs in Fitness-to-Drive Assessments
Source: Australian Medical Association (AMA) | National Transport Commission (NTC)