August has provided several valuable opportunities to connect with members, celebrate the work of general practice and strengthen our advocacy and engagement across NSW and the ACT.
On 5 August, we held our annual NSW GPs for MPs event at NSW Parliament House. The event provided an important opportunity for a group of RACGP members to engage directly with Members of Parliament while providing health checks and promoting the value of GP-led preventive care. Importantly, these conversations allowed our members to share their experiences directly with decision-makers and reinforce the essential role of general practice in supporting the health of communities across NSW. Thank you to all of our GP members who participated and helped make the event a success.
The 2026 RACGP Faculty Council elections are also underway, with nominations now open. Faculty Councils play an important role in representing the views and experiences of members and helping shape and deliver the direction and advocacy priorities of the College. I encourage eligible members who are passionate about representing their colleagues and strengthening general practice in their communities to consider nominating. Nominations close on 28 August, with voting for contested positions to follow in September.
On 12 August, we hosted a member meet and greet with the RACGP Board at the RACGP North Sydney office. The evening provided a valuable opportunity for members to connect directly with Board, ask questions, provide feedback and network with colleagues in an informal setting. It was wonderful to see members come together and engage in conversations about the College and the future of general practice.
We also continued our focus on rural and regional general practice through the Rural Showcase, held in Parramatta on 19 August. The event provided an important opportunity to highlight the breadth of rural general practice to our registrars, strengthen connections with practices and stakeholders (from areas including Broken Hill, New England, North West NSW, Central West NSW and Dareton/Coomealla in Far West NSW) and showcase the rewarding opportunities available to those considering a rural career.
I would also like to acknowledge the appointment of Dr Marisa Paterson MLA as the new ACT Minister for Health. I look forward to establishing a strong working relationship with Minister Paterson and briefing her on the priorities for general practice, including the critical role GPs play in delivering accessible, high-quality, continuous care to communities across the ACT.
Thank you, as always, for your continued engagement with the faculty. Whether through advocacy, Faculty Council representation, attending our member events, or sending in suggestions, your involvement helps ensure the experiences and priorities of GPs across NSW and the ACT continue to inform the work of the College.
Until next month,
Dr Rebekah Hoffman
Chair of RACGP NSW&ACT