President’s Update: Ahpra, Digital Health, and AMA NT
28 Nov 2025
This week began with patient consultations, before I attended the annual workshop with the Medical Board of Australia (MBA) and Ahpra. The agenda covered telehealth, evolving models of care, and non-medical prescribing, alongside our ongoing advocacy for transparent and fair notification and investigation processes. We encouraged Ahpra to take a strategic, cross-profession approach to ensure the regulator is prepared for future challenges. While policymakers may be attracted to new ideas, patient safety must remain central, and Ahpra must continue to improve support for practitioners facing notifications.
The AMA plays a crucial role in representing doctors and patients nationwide, shaping Australia’s healthcare landscape.
This week is also significant for our AMA family, as AMA Northern Territory moves closer to joining the federal AMA as a branch. The AMA ACT will vote next week on whether this governance model suits them. Tasmania’s experience shows the benefits: since joining the federal AMA a year ago, they have maintained strong local policies while benefiting from closer collaboration between state and federal bodies.
These structural changes do not diminish our commitment to branches that remain independent. A recent partnership with AMA Victoria demonstrates our collaborative approach, ensuring all doctors—no matter where they practice—have robust representation. Whether advocating for Medicare reforms, safe working conditions, or investment in rural and preventive health, our impact is greatest when we work together.
This week also saw me in Perth as a member of the Australian Digital Health Agency Board, gaining insights into local digital health leadership. I also met with local GPs and visited St John of God Hospital, Subiaco, where I spoke with past AMA President Dr Michael Gannon and the hospital leadership about current successes and challenges.
Stay tuned for the upcoming release of our AMA Private Health Insurance Report Card, highlighting the need for an independent authority to oversee urgent reforms and ensure the system serves community needs.
Amid the busy schedule, I hope to enjoy a relaxing weekend at Rottnest Island—maybe even a few quokka selfies! I hope your weekend is equally enjoyable.
Source: Australian Medical Association (AMA)
