Doctors Take Their Concerns to QLD Parliament
29 Aug 2025
Queensland GPs Take Advocacy to Parliament
A group of Queensland GPs visited State Parliament this week to share their priorities directly with some of the state’s most senior politicians.
The delegation, part of the fourth annual GPs @ Parliament event, was led by RACGP Queensland Chair Dr Cath Hester. She said the yearly meetings have become an important way for doctors to strengthen relationships with MPs and highlight the vital role of general practice in the health system.
Joined by Deputy Chair Dr Aileen Traves and Faculty Council members Dr Aaron Chambers, Dr Tony Bayliss, and Dr Nicole White, the team met with 24 MPs, including Health Minister Tim Nicholls, Treasurer David Janetzki, Attorney-General Deb Frecklington, Opposition Leader Steven Miles, and Opposition Health Minister Mark Bailey.
The doctors raised several key issues, including:
- Allowing GPs to prescribe and manage treatment for ADHD in both children and adults.
- Expanding GP prescribing rights for oral Isotretinoin (Roaccutane) to help patients with moderate to severe acne.
- Supporting GPs to provide frontline care during natural disasters.
- Ensuring GPs have a voice in health system planning.
Dr Traves said the conversations were positive and showed the importance of giving GPs a seat at the table.
“These patients often struggle with costs and access to specialists. As their local GPs, we are well placed to provide ongoing care,” she said.
Both Dr Traves and Dr Hester said they were encouraged by the recognition and appreciation MPs expressed for their own GPs, especially the value of continuity of care.
Dr Hester added that the event showed how relationships with politicians have grown stronger over time, with many MPs now attending RACGP events in their communities.
“It was great to hear so many MPs thank us for the work Queensland GPs do every day,” she said.
Source: RACGP