AMA President’s Update: CAS Meeting, Rural Health, Primary Care and Public Health Advocacy
26 Mar 2026
The meeting covered workforce planning, training and support for future doctors, preventive health, innovation, and advocacy – including a practical session on politics, media, and how policy decisions are made. Our work was recognised by Assistant Minister for Health and Aged Care Rebecca White and Shadow Minister Anne Ruston, who emphasised the importance of reports like the Public Hospital Report Card.
On Tuesday, I attended the Rural Doctors Association of Australia (RDAA) annual briefing at Parliament House. Rural and regional doctors, politicians, and stakeholders discussed the unique challenges facing remote communities. RDAA President Dr Sarah Chalmers spoke about the rewards and difficulties of working in rural Australia, highlighting the need for tailored solutions and support for doctors in these areas.
Also this week, we marked 1000 days since Peta Murphy’s report on online gambling advertising and called on the federal government to implement its recommendations. The report highlighted how gambling companies exploit sport to normalise gambling, causing serious harm to Australian families.
I also attended the Department of Health, Disability and Ageing’s Primary Care Conference. The theme, Primary Care Teams: Integrating Collaboration, Policy and Technology, showcased how strong policy, digital tools, and team-based care can create a connected and responsive primary care system. Sessions covered reforms to the PHN model, digital health, and rural healthcare.
Today, I will appear at the Standing Committee on Health, Aged Care and Disability’s public hearing on the health impacts of alcohol and other drugs. I will highlight at-risk groups and the links between substance use and rising domestic and family violence.
Next Monday, I will take part in the AFR Healthcare Summit panel on lowering healthcare costs. After that, I’ll be taking some leave but will update everyone on developments when I return.
For those travelling over the Easter break, stay safe. A big thank you to everyone working through the holiday – your dedication makes our advocacy for doctors and patients possible.
https://www.ama.com.au/
Source: Australian Medical Association (AMA)