Bulk-Billing Debate Takes Centre Stage as Health Minister Faces Tough Questions at GP25
14 Nov 2025
Held on Turrbal and Jagera Country, the conference brought together more than 1300 local and international delegates, alongside RACGP staff and partners. The first session featured Dr Wright questioning the Minister on issues that have caused concern among GPs, including bulk-billing expectations, remuneration, and the Government’s public commentary on the sector.
Dr Wright raised the profession’s frustration with the Minister’s ongoing promotion of the bulk-billing incentives package, noting that many GPs feel the rhetoric overlooks the complex realities of practice funding. His comments prompted spontaneous applause from a large section of the audience.
Minister Butler reiterated that the Government’s bulk-billing commitment shaped the design of the incentives package, and acknowledged that the RACGP and the Government differ in several areas — particularly regarding potential market intervention and the financial pressures faced by some practices.
While accepting that not all practices will benefit equally from the 1 November changes, the Minister said the Government remains confident the national bulk-billing rate will reach its 90% target later in the decade. He added that the intention is not to threaten practices or their business models but to improve access to affordable primary care while supporting a strong general practice sector.
The session closed with Dr Wright recognising the Government’s investment in general practice and emphasising the college’s commitment to ongoing collaboration.
Earlier in the morning, the conference opened with a smoking ceremony and Welcome to Country, followed by remarks from RACGP Queensland Chair Dr Cath Hester, who thanked GPs for their contribution to communities across Australia.
In his opening address, Dr Wright highlighted the importance of a united profession, especially during a period of funding changes and uncertainty. He emphasised the college’s mission to strengthen general practice and to ensure that policymakers, funders and the public understand the value of GP-led care.
Minister Butler later delivered his keynote speech, describing general practice as essential to the health system and acknowledging that it has faced significant pressures. He praised the RACGP’s leadership in training and welcomed the recent rise in doctors choosing general practice as their preferred career path.
Discussing longer-term reform, the Minister said Medicare must evolve to better support the needs of patients who require ongoing, team-based, holistic care, rather than episodic treatment. While noting that the Government and the RACGP will not always agree, he emphasised that cooperation between the two has already contributed to strengthening the sector.
GP25 continues in Brisbane until 16 November and includes the RACGP’s 68th Annual General Meeting.
Source: newsGP
