Record satisfaction with GP training in Australia
09 Feb 2026
Experts say the findings highlight strong clinical training but also point to areas that still need improvement.
Around 92% of the 1225 GP registrars who took part in the 2025 National Registrar Survey said they were satisfied with their overall training and education. Satisfaction with clinical training was even higher, with 97% saying they were happy with their clinical work and level of responsibility.
The survey was carried out by the Australian Council for Educational Research (ACER) and showed a big rise in satisfaction compared to previous years. The results were released on the same day the Federal Government announced a new $751.3 million GP training grant over five years.
RACGP GPiT Deputy Chair Dr Madeleine Wilkie said it was encouraging to see such high approval and praised the quality of education, clinical support and training diversity. She also said advocacy efforts have helped improve training programs.
Most registrars in the survey (81%) were training for RACGP fellowship, while others were studying with the Australian College of Rural and Remote Medicine. Many registrars praised supportive supervisors, good mentoring and regular check-ins during training.
However, some groups reported lower satisfaction. Rural and remote registrars, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander registrars, and those preparing for exams said they needed better support, communication and resources. Calls were also made for more flexible training, childcare support, and travel funding.
RACGP President Dr Michael Wright welcomed the results and said registrars benefit from high-quality supervision and diverse clinical experience. The survey also found that lifestyle, patient variety and long-term patient relationships are still the main reasons people choose general practice.
Most registrars (95%) said they plan to work as a GP or Rural Generalist in five years. Registrars also reported better work–life balance and more flexible training compared to other medical specialties.
https://www1.racgp.org.au/
Source: National Registrar Survey 2025 (ACER / Department of Health, Disability and Ageing)
