GPs will be freed from the burden of their medical student fees under the latest plan to fix the workforce crisis, a plan that will refund half their fees after one year if they work in very remote areas. 

The government expects more than $27 million in fees will be erased over four years, based on legislation it introduced to Parliament earlier this month.

“We’re hoping this will result in an immediate boost in health practitioners … and that we also see good retention as that person becomes part of that community,” the Assistant Minister for Rural and Regional Health, Emma McBride, told Australian Doctor. 

The Department of Health and Aged Care said the incentive was expected to attract about 850 doctors and nurse practitioners every year, based on interest in the Bonded Medical Program and its own workforce analysis.