The number of GPs working across rural and remote Western Australia has for the first time topped 1000.
This milestone was reached in 2024 and highlighted in Rural Health West’s latest rural GP workforce report.
As of November 30, 2024, a record 1009 GPs were listed as practising in rural WA, marking a 5.8% increase from the previous year.
The most significant gains were seen in resident GPs, with an additional 38 doctors, and GP registrars, with an increase of 13.
The proportion of female GPs also rose to 48%, continuing a trend observed since 2014 when it was 28%.
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Rural Health West chief executive officer Professor Catherine Elliott said the results were both encouraging and a reminder of the ongoing effort required to attract and retain a strong rural GP workforce.
“To have more than 1000 rural GPs practicing in Western Australia for the first time is a major milestone,” she said.
“However, we also know that rural and remote communities are continuing to grow, and demand for care is increasing.”
The 2024 WA Rural GP Summit identified that that at least 300 more rural GPs would be needed by 2030, so Prof Elliott said while the record was “a great step forward, we still have a way to go.”
Five regions — the South West, Great Southern, Outer Metropolitan, Pilbara and Midwest –saw a rise in GP numbers.
Turnover in the permanent GP workforce also showed signs of improvement, dropping to 12.5%, down from 14.7% the year before.
“While turnover remains a challenge, particularly in remote regions like the Pilbara and Kimberley, we hope this signals a growing trend of stability,” Prof Elliott said.
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The report also highlighted the ongoing importance of International Medical Graduates (IMGs), who made up 67.5% of new arrivals and represent more than half of the rural GP workforce.
“International Medical Graduates are a crucial part of the rural health landscape,” Prof Elliott said.
She noted the importance of ensuring the rural GP workforce was well-supported.
“Building a strong workforce isn’t just about numbers. It’s also about making sure rural GPs have the professional support they need,” Prof Elliott said.
“That includes access to communities of practice, peer connection, and the latest evidence-based trends so they can deliver the highest standard of care and stay supported throughout their careers in the bush.”
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