AMA Highlights Role of GPs in Thriving Kids Parliamentary Inquiry

AMA Highlights Role of GPs in Thriving Kids Parliamentary Inquiry

20 Nov 2025

In their submission, the AMA emphasized the importance of placing general practitioners at the heart of the initiativehighlighting the vital role that primary care plays in identifying developmental issues 
early and providing ongoing support for these children.


“GPs are usually the first people families turn to,” Dr McMullen said.
“They are trusted and easy to reach, and they are in a unique position to notice early signs of developmental concerns. For Thriving Kids to work, we need to support general practice—by providing more time for consultationsencouraging team-based care, and improving referral systemsparticularly in rural and remote areas.”
The AMA is also pushing for the use of developmental screening supported by integrated digital health records, either in the community or within primary care settings, to help with early detection and better coordination of care.

Source: Australian Medical Association (AMA)