Australia's GP Shortage: Patient numbers

Australia’s GP Shortage: The 2026 Reality Check

Australia’s General Practitioner shortage remains a major issue in 2026. Despite significant government investment, expanded training pathways, and continued international recruitment, demand for GPs still exceeds supply, particularly in regional, rural, and outer-metropolitan communities.

The Federal Government has announced more than $1 billion in GP workforce funding, with around 2,100 doctors expected to commence GP training in 2026, the largest intake on record. Additional training places have also been created for 2027. These are positive steps, but they will take years to translate into fully qualified GPs working independently in communities that need them most. (www.health.gov.uk)

At the same time, the Department of Health’s own modelling continues to project an ongoing shortfall of GPs over the next two decades unless further action is taken. In short: more doctors are entering the pipeline, but demand is growing faster than supply. (www.oia.pmc.gov.au)

The shortage also remains unevenly distributed. Australia doesn’t just have a workforce shortage — it has a workforce distribution problem. Many inner-city areas remain relatively well serviced, while rural towns, remote communities, and fast-growing outer suburbs continue to struggle to attract and retain doctors. This is why the Distribution Priority Area (DPA) system remains central to workforce planning and IMG recruitment. (www.health.gov.au)

For patients, this often means longer wait times, reduced continuity of care, and increasing pressure on emergency departments for issues that should be managed in primary care.

Why Demand Keeps Growing?

One of the key drivers of rising demand is the increasing prevalence of chronic disease and an aging population. Between 2023 and 2048, even small percentage increases in major health conditions will result in hundreds of thousands of additional patients requiring ongoing GP care. The GP Supply and Demand Study (2024) projects a consistent undersupply of GPs through to 2048, with unmet demand rising across all states and territories

Several factors contribute to this persistent shortfall. More GPs are retiring than entering the profession, and many are choosing to work fewer hours. Workforce demographics are shifting, with overseas-trained doctors (IMGs) typically working longer hours, while a growing number of female GPs opt for more flexible schedules. Training bottlenecks also continue to limit the number of new registrars completing the pathway.

Overseas-trained doctors remain vital to maintaining access to primary care across Australia. Pathways such as the AHPRA Expedited Specialist Pathway, RACGP’s PEP Specialist Stream, and Distribution Priority Areas (DPAs) allow IMGs to work in shortage zones under special conditions, helping to fill critical gaps in the system.

How New GPs Can Build a Busy, Sustainable Practice

For new GPs entering the workforce, the ongoing shortage presents a unique opportunity. With strong demand almost everywhere, building a busy, sustainable practice is achievable with the right approach. Success often hinges on being available, building connections and trust. Getting to know the local community is essential. Participating in events, collaborating with pharmacists, allied health providers, and schools can help build relationships and generate word-of-mouth referrals — still the most powerful growth tool for GPs. Offering a diverse mix of services, such as chronic disease management, mental health care, skin checks, and minor procedures, also helps attract and retain patients.

Technology plays a key role in being found. Online booking systems, telehealth options, and active profiles on platforms like Google and Healthengine make it easier for patients to discover and choose a GP. Working as part of a well-organised team, including nurses, receptionists, and other clinicians — supports efficient, patient-centred care. Practices that prioritise continuity, accessibility, and consistent follow-ups tend to grow faster and retain patients more effectively.

For GPs considering a move to Australia, asking the right questions during interviews is crucial. Practice models and billing arrangements vary widely, and understanding patient flow, and financial structures can make the difference between a full schedule and a slow start. It’s worth researching the practice online, checking their website, social media presence, and HotDoc listings, to see how they present themselves and how easy they are for patients to find.

During interviews, think about what you might want to ask to gauge how busy the practice is, what the average weekly billings per GP, typical session structures, and patient demographics. Find out whether the practice maintains a registered patient list or operates on open access, and ask about waiting lists or unmet demand. Clarify how sessional hours and payments are structured and what the practice does to attract new patients.

Conclusion

Australia’s GP shortage isn’t going away anytime soon. While headcounts are rising, full-time capacity is falling, and chronic disease, population growth, and retirements continue to outpace recruitment. But for new GPs, this shortage represents opportunity. Those who combine strong clinical skills with community engagement, digital visibility, and patient-centred care will find themselves in high demand. Do your research and ask questions, it’s the best way to set yourself up for success in Australian general practice.

References

Australian Government Department of Health, Disability and Ageing – General Practice Workforce Providing Primary Care Services in Australia, 2019–2024
GP Supply and Demand Study Compendium, August 2024 – hwd.health.gov.au