Rural health leader outlines priorities for Australia’s regional communities
14 Aug 2026
Professor May began as Rural Health Commissioner in September 2024. Her work includes advising the Federal Department of Health and the Health Minister, listening to rural health professionals and communities, and helping shape policies for rural and remote Australia.
A GP with more than 30 years of experience, Professor May said her approach is centred on three areas: generalism, equity and place.
One of the major developments during her term has been the formal recognition of rural generalism. Professor May said the next step is to make rural generalism an established part of the rural healthcare system.
The recent creation of the Joint Consultative Committee on Rural Generalist Medicine is expected to support this work. Professor May has been appointed as its Chair and will work with the RACGP and ACRRM to improve alignment around training, standards and accreditation.
The Medical Board of Australia has also accredited the RACGP and ACRRM Rural Generalist training programs. This supports the pathway for eligible doctors to gain specialist recognition through AHPRA. Rural Generalist has also been established as a protected title, with enforcement provisions due to begin in 2027.
Professor May said rural generalism is part of a broader effort to help policymakers better understand the different healthcare needs of rural, regional and remote communities.
Another major achievement has been the National Consensus Framework for Rural Maternity Services, which outlines the requirements for sustainable maternity services in rural areas. She also highlighted ongoing work with the Council of Presidents of Medical Colleges on rural selection and training.
However, Professor May said the size of her team remains a challenge. The office has two Deputy Commissioners and a total team of 10, covering a wide range of rural health needs.
A recent legislative review confirmed the value and impact of the Rural Health Commissioner’s office, but Professor May said more could be achieved with additional resources and deeper collaboration.
Alongside her role as Commissioner, Professor May continues to work as a GP in Tamworth, regional New South Wales. She said balancing clinical practice with her wider responsibilities can be demanding but remains important to her work.
Professor May also works closely with the RACGP on workforce planning and rural health issues. She recently joined the RACGP Expert Committee – GP Workforce, which focuses on long-term workforce planning, funding, supply, demand and the uneven distribution of healthcare professionals.
Looking ahead, Professor May said connected care, digital health, scope of practice and workforce challenges will remain important areas of focus.
She also emphasised the importance of equity and working closely with First Nations organisations to strengthen rural healthcare.
With her appointment extended for another two years, Professor May said she remains committed to representing rural and remote communities and ensuring policymakers recognise that rural, regional and remote areas have different healthcare needs.
Rural health leader outlines priorities for Australia’s regional communities
Source: Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP); Office of the National Rural Health Commissioner.