Rural Medical Student Award

Rural Medical Student Award

The Rural Medical Student Award is awarded to a medical student who is a member of a rural health students’ club at an Australian university who submits the best essay (maximum 1200 words) on the topic outlined below.

Essay topic:

Rural Australians deserve high-quality and timely healthcare. As a future medical professional, outline your vision of how this can be achieved. Consider innovations in workforce, service delivery, community partnerships, cultural safety and system design, using new care models and technology. Explain how these changes could deliver exceptional care, continuity and access in rural communities.

Nominees must also be a current student member of the RACGP.

Each essay nomination is judged on the following criteria:

• demonstrated understanding of rural general practice;
• demonstrated evidence of innovative thinking;
• interest in a career in rural general practice;

The Rural Medical Student award includes:

• registration to attend the College's annual conference
• presentation of a commemorative trophy at the RACGP National Awards Ceremony.

Nominations for all awards will close at 9:00am AEST on Monday 1 June 2026.

Submit your nomination

2025 winner

The 2025 Rural Medical Student of the Year was awarded to Miss Aleesha Scarrfe. Aleesha is a medical student from the University of Tasmania and was commended on her outstanding commitment to rural health and the depth of insight showcased in her essay on rural placements. Aleesha has deliberately chosen rural training at every opportunity, immersing herself in diverse communities across Australia and building strong connections with patients, educators and local leaders.