Each year, the NSW&ACT Faculty presents an Award for Special Service to a senior member of the Faculty who has, over an extended period, made an outstanding contribution to the RACGP’s strategic direction and/or core functions of education, quality of care, standards and research.
This year, the Faculty was delighted to present the Award for Special Service to Professor Diana O’Halloran.
Since 1983, Di has tirelessly advocated for health system reform in general practice, focusing on quality and equity. As Chair of the National Trainee Association, she played a crucial role in establishing mandatory GP Vocational Training and accreditation, influencing significant RACGP submissions in the late 1980s and early 1990s.
From 2000 to 2012, Di served on the RACGP Board and as NSW&ACT Faculty Chair, where she shaped policy through the development of key documents on vocational training and health reform. Her notable contributions include the 2009 paper on revitalising general practice and the 2012 position statement on quality practice.
During her tenure as NSW&ACT Faculty Chair, Di championed the role and financing of Faculties and fostered essential partnerships with health bodies, forming the stakeholder relationships that we continue to rely on today. Her advocacy has been instrumental in shaping the College and a myriad of health and working reforms.
Now, as Chair of the Western Sydney PHN, Di continues to prioritise general practice through patient-centred initiatives, maintaining strong collaborations with the RACGP. Her tireless commitment has profoundly shaped the future of Australian general practice, benefiting communities across the region.