The Albanese Government is delivering on a key election commitment to strengthen GP practices across the country.
The $220 million Strengthening Medicare - General Practice (GP) Grants Program will allow all General Practices and eligible Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisations (ACCHOs) to expand patient access and improve their services.
The GP Grants Program is delivering on the Government's commitment to strengthen Medicare and boost general practice after a decade of cuts and neglect from the former government.
The GP Grants will support all general practices and eligible ACCHOs across Australia to make investments in innovation, training, equipment, and minor capital works in one or more of the three investment streams below:
- Enhance digital health capability
- Upgrade infection prevention and control arrangements
- Maintain and/or achieve accreditation against the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP) Standards for General Practices (5th edition).
Grants will be provided depending on accredited GP practice size, with smaller practices eligible for grants of $25,000 or $35,000 and larger practices eligible for grants of $50,000. GP practices and ACCHOs not currently accredited against the RACGP standards will be eligible for $25,000.
The grants will be delivered through local Primary Health Networks (PHNs) and the National Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisation (NACCHO).
Over the coming weeks, PHNs and NACCHO will be sending letters directly to general practices inviting participation in the Grants Program.
Quotes attributable to Minister Butler:
"After working tirelessly throughout the pandemic, doctors deserve more than thanks, that's why we're giving them the resources to invest in their practices.
"The $220 million investment will give a much-needed boost to general practices across the country.
"We understand the crucial importance of primary health care provided by GPs. This funding will help improve practices and make sure Australians can access safe, quality and affordable healthcare when and where they need it".
