Record Growth in GP Training Across Australia
23 Feb 2026
Nationally, 1,772 doctors have joined the Australian General Practice Training (AGPT) Program with the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP). This includes 56 future GPs in Tasmania and 359 in Queensland.
In the NT, most trainees will work in rural or remote communities, with seven training as Rural Generalists. Others will spend time in Darwin but complete part of their training outside the city or in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health placements. Demand is high, with more doctors applying than there are training spots.
RACGP NT Chair Dr Sam Heard said the Territory offers unique and rewarding training opportunities but highlighted the need for better housing for trainees in remote areas.
Tasmania has seen a 19% increase in GP trainees, including 14 Rural Generalists, while Queensland has grown by 6.5%, with many trainees on rural and non-metropolitan pathways.
RACGP President Dr Michael Wright said the growth shows that investing in GP training works. “Australia needs more specialist GPs, and the RACGP is ready to train them,” he said. He also called on the Federal Government to keep funding GP training beyond 2028.
Earlier this month, the Federal Government granted $751.3 million over five years to the RACGP for the AGPT Program – the largest and longest training agreement ever awarded to a medical college.
Source: RACGP