Federal Health Minister to speak at Australia's premier annual GP conference

Federal Minister for Health and Aged Care the Hon. Mark Butler will attend GP24 to speak to GPs and GPs in training from across Australia.   

The Royal Australian College of GPs (RACGP) annual conference GP24 runs from 21 to 23 November at Perth Convention and Exhibition Centre, covering the latest in medical advancements, research, and clinical practice. GPs will also attend pre-conference workshops, including for emergency medicine, dermatology and cultural safety. 

This year’s theme ‘Reimagining healthcare’ explores the future of general practice care in Australia.   

Day one of GP24 includes the RACGP’s annual general meeting, which will see current President Dr Nicole Higgins handing over the reins to President-elect Dr Michael Wright.  

And the conference closes with the WA Faculty Fellowship ceremony, which marks the culmination of 11 years’ education, training, rigorous assessment, and experience in primary care to become a specialist GP. 

RACGP President Dr Nicole Higgins said: “I’m delighted that Federal Health Minister Mark Butler can join us for the RACGP’s annual conference – the premier event for GPs across Australia. 

“General practice is at the heart of Australia’s world class health system. But we know our country faces significant health challenges, including an ageing population, and epidemic of chronic illness, and mental health conditions. 

“This year’s conference looks at the future of general practice, new technologies, medical innovation and research that can shape the way GPs care for communities across Australia – and help us to meet these health challenges head on. 

“GP24 will also explore new technologies and approaches to enhance GP training. The RACGP trains 90% of GPs across Australia’s big cities, rural, remote, and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities, thanks to Federal Government funding. Our approach is enabling GP registrars to train in communities that haven’t had one for years. 

“I know GPs will be keen to hear from Minister Butler. His attendance at Australia’s premier GP conference is an honour and it reflects the critical role of general practice in helping Australians stay healthy and out of hospital and reducing pressure on our health system.”