Improving the RACGP placement process

Last year, we asked for your feedback on the GP training placement process. We conducted a comprehensive evaluation, gathering feedback through a survey distributed to operational staff, registrars, training sites and supervisors, resulting in an impressive 1771 responses. Thank you for your valuable input.

We’ve been hard at work addressing your feedback and have made some changes in preparation for the 2025.1 placement process. Rest assured, we’ll continue to evaluate and improve ahead of each placement cycle.

Below is a summary of key themes you highlighted and the actions we’re taking in response.

Clear and timely communication: We've developed a more effective communication plan and have reviewed placement resources to ensure information is provided in a timely and concise manner.
12-month placement options: We’ve updated the training management system (TMS) to include a field acknowledging any 12-month contracts offered. Registrars interested in placements across two locations can organise this through their training coordinator, and the arrangement will be formalised in the TMS for the next placement cycle. We’re also currently exploring the feasibility of an annual placement process.
Registrar application limits: We’ve capped the number of applications a registrar can submit at one time to 15. The average number of applications per registrar in 2024.2 was four, however there were still enough instances of above 20 to warrant an application cap.
Practice capacity: We understand the challenges around training site capacity, especially when a training site appears to have a vacancy that is actually reserved for a continuing registrar. While we won’t have a solution in place for 2025.1, we’re working on modifications to the TMS for 2025.2 that will clearly differentiate between available capacity and continuing registrar (likely unavailable) capacity. In the meantime, we encourage training sites to include this information in their advertisements, and registrars to check this before submitting an application.
Accredited training site list: To support registrars in their planning, we’ve added an interactive table to the RACGP website that lists accredited training facilities. You can view it here: RACGP accredited training facilities.

Thank you for your cooperation as we continue working to improve the placement process for all involved.