The RACGP is balancing for better

Balance comes in many forms – and is not always an easy thing to achieve.

Whether it’s between work and life, diet and exercise or anything else, balance can be elusive and nearly always takes a lot of work.
 
That is why I am so proud of the RACGP’s efforts – and considerable success – in creating what is a gender-balanced college. And I am especially happy to celebrate these achievements on International Women’s Day 2019, the theme of which is ‘balance for better’.
 
From having a female CEO to reaching a balanced membership of more than 40,000 GPs, Australia’s largest medical college is a leader in this area.
 
As I said back in 2017, which was the first time women accounted for more than half of the country’s GPs, including within the RACGP’s membership, we have come a long way since the organisation began as a men’s club back in 1958.
 
Women hold many senior positions throughout the college. There are six women on our 14-person Board (including the Chair), more than half of the RACGP Expert Committees are chaired by women, and women also chair 15 of the 29 RACGP Specific Interests networks.
 
The RACGP also values and celebrates diversity among its staff, who bring together a broad spectrum of experience, knowledge and expertise. I am proud of my organisation’s efforts to create an environment of inclusion for all, where everyone can contribute.
 
The general practice profession itself remains a home for female medical graduates. The flexibility of life as a GP provides women – and men – with the freedom they need to live their best lives outside of the consulting room.
 
GPs can tailor their work to their lives. They can have families and enjoy their own interests, while still being able to see the patients and undertake the type of work they most love. And the team-based nature of the profession means they can rely on their teams and colleagues to help when they need it.
 
GPs are not forced to squeeze in any possible time for themselves and their families whenever they get the chance.
 
Women within the RACGP and the general practice profession have a sense of being in control of their own lives, an opportunity for the balance that so many crave – and yet so few can find.
 
Today is the day for acknowledgement of ourselves and our sisters, our mentors and those we admire. I would like to thank all of the RACGP members and staff who support me. I have a special tribe of women who make contact and know the challenges of my career and life.
 
I sincerely care about each of you. Thank you.

balance for better gender International Women’s Day