RACGP Calls for Human Oversight in New GP Incentive Payment Laws
28 Jul 2026
The Health Legislation Amendment (Incentive Payments and Other Measures) Bill 2026 is designed to update and simplify health incentive payment programs.
In its submission, the RACGP said it cannot fully support the Bill unless key changes are made, particularly around the use of automated decision-making.
RACGP President Dr Michael Wright said decisions about GP eligibility, compliance and participation should not rely solely on automated systems. He said these decisions often involve complex clinical and operational factors that require professional judgement.
The college warned that automated systems could make incorrect decisions if they fail to consider differences between practices and patient populations. This could create unnecessary administrative work and lead to lengthy review or appeal processes for GPs.
The RACGP believes decisions that affect a practice financially or professionally should always involve qualified human decision-makers, with clinical advice available when required.
The college also wants the Government to consult with peak medical organisations before making changes to incentive payment program rules. It has recommended creating an expert advisory group to help guide the new framework.
The submission also calls for incentive payments to keep pace with inflation and rising practice costs, ensuring patients continue to have access to affordable general practice care.
While the RACGP welcomed the Government's commitment to transition existing practices into the new system without requiring new applications, it warned that unnecessary compliance requirements could increase administrative pressure, particularly for smaller and rural practices.
The college has also asked Health Minister Mark Butler to report to Parliament within 6–12 months after the legislation begins, outlining how the new framework is working.
A Senate Committee is currently reviewing the Bill and is expected to deliver its final report on 14 August 2026.
RACGP Calls for Human Oversight in New GP Incentive Payment Laws
Source: Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP)