The Australian College of Rural and Remote Medicine (ACRRM) welcomes the Australian and Queensland Governments' announcement of a new four-year Single Employer Model (SEM) trial, which will provide greater support for doctors training in rural, remote, and regional Queensland. 

The expanded trial will support up to 60 full-time equivalent rural General Practitioners (GP) and Rural Generalist (RG) registrars across the Northern, Central, and Southern regions of Queensland, beginning in February 2025. 

ACRRM President Dr Rod Martin says the expansion builds on successful trials conducted across Queensland, which have demonstrated positive outcomes for registrars, general practices and communities they serve. 

“ACRRM has long advocated for employment models that provide stability and support for our Rural Generalist registrars,” Dr Martin says. 

“The SEM trial is helping to attract doctors where they are most needed and encouraging them to stay and establish long-term careers.” 

Under the four-year SEM trial, registrars will be salaried employees of the Queensland Government rather than needing to change employers with each general practice placement.  

“By offering more certainty and stability, this trial increases the likelihood that registrars will build long-term careers in rural and regional areas,” Dr Martin adds. 

“Rural Generalists play a vital role in providing comprehensive, high-quality healthcare to rural and remote communities. 

“ACRRM remains committed to working with governments and healthcare partners to support initiatives that build a strong, sustainable rural medical workforce and deliver positive outcomes for communities most in need.”