Chair Reports -
May 2025

In acknowledging the contributions of those who came before us, as well as the ongoing efforts of those around us, we sustain our motivation, regardless of the challenges we encounter. Similarly, the contribution of every team member in a practice environment helps shape the newer generation of doctors. A team-based approach in our training environments enables each member of a practice to contribute to their fullest potential, leveraging their strengths to foster effective learning. Given that over 80% of a registrar’s training still occurs within the general practice environment, the quality of these coalface experiences – and those of medical students yet to decide on their future career – is paramount to the future of our profession.

This month’s e-newsletter emphasises the critical importance of the supervisor’s role in member spotlight articles featuring:

• Dr Margaret Garde OAM, Supervisor from Victoria, and 
• Dr Peter Mitchell, Victorian Supervisor Liaison Officer (SLO)

Empowering our members’ contributions to supervision, GPSA is hosting a special webinar at 8pm AEST on 13th May. This session will feature a panel of distinguished women supervisors, invited to share their experiences, insights and wisdom, offering valuable perspectives on supervision in general practice. This event aligns with “Women in Supervision”, a GPSA research project exploring the vital role of female supervisors in Australian general practice. With the growing proportion of women medical students, GPiTs and GPs – a trend set to continue in the coming years – this research aims to ensure a strong and inclusive future for our profession, identifying strategies to better attract, support and retain women in supervisory roles. 

It is essential that we acknowledge, value, and appropriately remunerate all who contribute to positive outcomes for general practice. By reframing the training site as a learning site, we recognise that all staff members – and often multiple GPs – play a crucial role in supporting the practice manager and designated supervisors. While these contributions may not always be formally recognised, they are vital to the wellbeing of those directly involved in training. At GPSA, we are committed to advocating for well-supported training practice teams and future processes that are streamlined around the needs of our members.

In May, the GPSA team will have the opportunity to engage with our members at the RACGP’s Practice Owners Conference in Melbourne. This year, our contingent includes our Deputy Chair Dr Candice Baker, Ms Carla Taylor, Mrs Leonie Chamberlain and, notably, GPSA’s new Interim CEO Mr Bruce Argyle. We are delighted to welcome Bruce to the GPSA family, and look forward to our entire community benefitting from his expertise and vast experience. Consider this an invitation to come and have a chat!

I would hope you are feeling inspired to reflect on your own role in shaping the next generation of GPs. Whether through supervision, mentorship, or participation in initiatives like the Women in Supervision project, your contributions are vital to building a stronger, more sustainable future:

“It’s what you do right now that makes the difference” – Black Hawk Down.