Strong Growth in SA’s GP Training Numbers
26 Feb 2026
This month, 154 doctors began the Australian General Practice Training (AGPT) Program in SA. Of these, 21 are training as Rural Generalists and 74 are on a rural pathway, helping strengthen care in country communities.
RACGP SA Chair Dr Siân Goodson said the sharp rise in registrar numbers shows growing confidence in general practice and the training opportunities available in the state. She said supportive, community-focused training benefits everyone, especially rural and regional areas that depend on strong GP services.
Dr Goodson also stressed the need for ongoing investment in supervisors, rural clinics and training facilities to make sure South Australians can continue to access high-quality primary care.
Interest in the 2026 AGPT Program was high, with 49 more eligible doctors applying to train in SA but missing out due to limited places.
RACGP President Dr Michael Wright said applications to become a specialist GP have risen 81% since 2024. He said doctors are choosing general practice for its strong training, meaningful patient relationships and long-term career stability.
He added that while the RACGP is ready to train more specialist GPs, long-term funding beyond 2028 is needed to ensure communities do not miss out.
Across Australia, 251 new registrars have started training in Western Australia, 31 in the Northern Territory, 56 in Tasmania and 359 in Queensland. In total, a record 1,772 doctors are beginning the AGPT Program in 2026.
https://www1.racgp.org.au/
Source: RACGP