President’s update: workforce, dementia prevention, and implementing the National Immunisation Strategy
18 Sep 2025
Gender pay gap and workforce equity
Recent data shows female doctors earn $6,500 less than male colleagues just three years into their careers. The AMA is advocating for fairer MBS item structures, greater involvement of women in healthcare leadership, and strategies to address systemic inequities in pay, recruitment, and career progression. Pay equity is essential for a sustainable health workforce.
Preventive health and productivity
We submitted to the Productivity Commission Interim Report – Delivering Quality Care More Efficiently, highlighting the economic benefits of investing in preventive health and early intervention. While Australians live longer, many spend years in poor health, limiting workforce participation and community engagement. Healthcare spending should be seen as an investment, not a cost.
Dementia awareness
During Dementia Action Week, new AIHW data confirmed dementia is now Australia’s leading cause of death. Prevention strategies, including staying physically and socially active, reducing alcohol intake, and keeping the brain stimulated, can significantly reduce risk.
National Council of Primary Care Doctors (NCPCD)
I attended a NCPCD meeting to discuss challenges facing GPs. There is strong alignment between peak bodies, supporting shared advocacy to strengthen general practice.
National Immunisation Strategy 2025–30
I attended the first of three workshops on implementing the strategy. This session focused on better use of data and new technologies. Future workshops will focus on equitable access, building trust in immunisation, and addressing workforce challenges. The AMA is prioritising immunisation and supporting evidence-based discussions, improved data transparency, and the role of general practice and nurses in vaccination.
Equity and diversity initiatives
The AMA launched a new LGBTQIASB+ Reference Group to guide inclusive policies. Along with our IMG committee and the joint Indigenous health taskforce with AIDA, this group will strengthen equity and diversity across AMA activities.
I’ll provide another update next Friday. Until then, a little brain teaser: Why did the doctor laugh at the X-ray?
Source: Australian Medical Association, September 2025
