Police Open to Changes on GP Health Checks for Recruits
19 Feb 2026
Last year, new rules shifted the responsibility for physical and mental health checks from internal police assessments to nominated GPs. These doctors were asked to check applicants’ health and review their medical history going back at least five years.
While Victoria Police said the changes were aimed at making recruitment more flexible and applicant-focused, the RACGP was informed but not consulted before the changes.
RACGP Victoria Chair, Dr Anita Muñoz, along with several GPs, wrote to Victoria Police last month, raising concerns about safety, practical issues, and medico-legal responsibilities.
A meeting between RACGP Victoria and Victoria Police on Wednesday was described by Dr Muñoz as “collaborative and respectful.” She said the discussion focused on how GPs can help applicants assess their suitability without having to carry out the full physical and psychological assessment.
Previously, applicants were required to do two psychometric tests, then a separate psychological assessment with their GP. Dr Muñoz said it’s outside the GP’s role to interpret the psychometric results or decide if someone is suitable for training. Instead, GPs are meant to screen candidates and advise them before they put themselves forward, while Victoria Police makes the final decision.
A Victoria Police spokesperson said talks with the RACGP had been positive and that they remain “open to making necessary changes” while keeping safety and high entry standards.
The discussions come after Western Australia introduced laws last year requiring medical assessments for gun owners at least once every five years.
https://www1.racgp.org.au/
Source: newsGP