Dr Alan Bradley
Dr Bradley is GP Advocate for the Federal Electorate of Menzies, Victoria. He is an avid Advocate and RACGP Future Leader, who has played an instrumental role in promoting the importance of advocacy skills for future leaders as well as supporting the design of an advocacy e-learning platform.
During GP25, Dr Bradley presented a quickfire presentation titled ‘RACGP GP Advocate Network: Turning Clinical Skills into Political Impact’ – earning the loudest clap of the session. Dr Bradely’s presentation highlighted how key GP skills translate to successful advocacy and empowered the audience with a reminder that MPs are ‘just people too’.
How long have you been a GP, where do you currently work, and what made you choose a career in general practice?
I Fellowed as a GP at the start of 2020 and currently work at a clinic in Surrey Hills, Melbourne. I also really enjoy my roles as a medical educator with the RACGP and tutoring medical students at the University of Melbourne.
During my hospital rotations, I discovered the most rewarding part of medicine for me was building relationships with patients, hearing their stories, and following their health journeys over time. General practice gives me the opportunity to genuinely connect with patients and families, providing continuous, holistic care from cradle to grave. It's a privilege that makes my work incredibly meaningful.
What inspired you to become an advocate? Was there a specific moment that sparked your interest?
My interest in advocacy started because I was concerned about the growing fragmentation of healthcare in Australia. Changes that let non-doctors diagnose and prescribe independently risk patient safety and weakens the continuity of care that makes general practice so special.
When the Scope of Practice changes were proposed, it became clear to me just how misunderstood and undervalued general practice was in some policy circles. That moment motivated me to step out of my comfort zone and advocate directly to my local MP. Joining the RACGP Advocate Network has provided valuable resources and support in this effort.
You’re a champion of advocacy for future leaders in general practice, why do you think advocacy is an important skill for this group?
In my role as a medical educator, I often meet incredibly talented and passionate early-career GPs who feel frustrated by systemic challenges but aren't always sure how to address them. Advocacy provides a positive, productive outlet for their passion. Good clinicians already have great advocacy skills – they naturally build rapport, communicate clearly, and help motivate patients to make important changes. Advocacy is about applying those same clinical skills to influence healthcare policy.
What’s your biggest tip for successful advocacy?
My number one tip is to listen and think long-term. Politicians have their own priorities, pressures, and personal experiences with healthcare. Just like managing patients who might be hesitant about starting medication, understanding a politician's perspective and framing your message to resonate with them can be highly effective.
It’s also important to set realistic expectations. Just as we wouldn't expect patients to completely change their habits after one consultation, we shouldn't expect politicians to immediately shift their views after a single meeting. Small, steady efforts often lead to meaningful and lasting change.