The ACT Government has issued a deed of grant to the Australian Medical Association, providing $440,000 over four years to support its continuing operation of the Drs4Drs ACT helpline.
Drs4Drs is a 24/7 service that provides a free, independent and confidential service for doctors and medical students who need advice on personal health and wellbeing matters, including stress and mental health challenges.
The helpline takes a trauma-informed approach and can refer callers to specialist services, online services and other supports. Drs4Drs ACT can also provide assistance to anyone who is concerned about a doctor or medical student.
Minister for Health, Rachel Stephen-Smith said that the ACT Government is proud to support Drs4Drs ACT.
"Investing in the wellbeing of Canberra's healthcare workforce is a priority for the ACT Government," Minister Stephen-Smith said.
"Our GPs, specialists and doctors at all levels of training play a vital role in our community, delivering quality care to Canberrans. However, we know that at times this can come at a cost to their own wellbeing.
"Drs4Drs ACT offers a vital service and makes a real difference in the lives of our doctors and medical students."
The Australian Medical Association will receive $110,000 each financial year, starting from 2025-26, which will support the helpline and a series of wellbeing workshops and events for doctors and medical students in the ACT.
Minister Stephen-Smith thanked the Australian Medical Association for its work to prioritise the health and wellbeing of the medical workforce and for its operation of the Drs4Drs program.
The investment in the Drs4Drs program is part of the ACT Government's broader $4 million Professional Development and Wellbeing Fund and delivers on an ACT Labor election commitment. By investing in both wellbeing and professional development, the Fund aims to support our GPs and primary care system to thrive - enabling GPs to provide outstanding care and find fulfillment and renewed joy in their work.
Quotes attributable to Dr Marisa Magiros, Medical Director, Drs4Drs ACT:
"Drs4Drs ACT warmly welcomes this new partnership with the ACT Government. The funding provides vital stability for our 24/7 helpline and ensures we can continue offering confidential triage, advice and referral support to all doctors and medical students in the Canberra region who are concerned about their wellbeing.
"The grant allows us to strengthen our administrative capacity, deliver wellbeing events for doctors and medical students across the Territory, and progress work to secure long-term sustainable funding for the service. This is a meaningful investment in the health of the workforce that cares for our community.
"We are especially grateful to AMA ACT President Dr Kerrie Aust, whose leadership and advocacy were instrumental in securing this support."
