RACGP responds to proposed changes to GP referral rules
20 Mar 2026
The move aims to make it easier for patients to access specialist care, but the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP) has urged caution.
A recent consultation paper noted that the current default 12-month referral period (and three months for non-GP specialist to non-GP specialist referrals) may not always reflect modern healthcare needs. Patients often need ongoing specialist care for chronic conditions, but must return to their GP for a renewal even if their condition is unchanged — adding inconvenience, extra costs, and administrative work.
RACGP President Dr Michael Wright said while indefinite referrals could reduce administrative burden and improve convenience, they carry risks. These include over-servicing by private specialists, pressure on specialist availability, and higher costs to Medicare. Regular referral renewals also allow GPs to maintain oversight, ensure continuity of care, and strengthen the GP-patient relationship.
The RACGP suggested that longer referrals could be considered if paired with safeguards such as structured information sharing and better digital interoperability through My Health Record.
The consultation also highlighted that many patients are unaware of their referral rights, including the flexibility to see any non-GP specialist in the same discipline as named on their referral. Communication gaps between specialists and GPs were also identified, with some GPs receiving little or no feedback on patient treatment.
Proposed reform options include:
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Extending referral validity periods
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Mandating standard information about referral processes, including fees
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Ensuring patients receive copies of their referrals and specialist reports, either in hard copy or via My Health Record
Dr Wright said modernising referral pathways is an opportunity to enhance patient access, reduce unnecessary administration, and improve integration across the health system. He cautioned, however, that reforms must prioritise quality and safety, and be co-designed with GPs to fit their workflows and add meaningful value for patients and health professionals.
The RACGP supports reforms that:
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Improve patient and population outcomes while enhancing clinician experience
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Maintain high-quality, person-centred care
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Strengthen GP-led multidisciplinary teams
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Reduce unnecessary administrative burden
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Improve communication and timely feedback between GPs and specialists
https://www1.racgp.org.au/
Source: RACGP / Federal Government consultation paper