19 May 2026
Diphtheria outbreak spreads across multiple states, GPs urged to stay alert
Health authorities are warning of Australia’s largest diphtheria outbreak in decades, with cases continuing to rise across multiple states and territories.
19 May 2026
Newcastle woman convicted for pretending to be a registered psychologist online
A Newcastle woman has been convicted after falsely presenting herself online as a registered psychologist and offering psychology services without any qualifications or registration.
19 May 2026
GPs remain central as healthcare goes digital: World Family Doctor Day marked in Australia
On 19 May, Australia marked World Family Doctor Day, highlighting the ongoing importance of general practitioners in a healthcare system that is increasingly shaped by digital tools and artificial intelligence.
19 May 2026
Government-backed bulk-billing clinics spark strong backlash in NSW
A new $25.3 million Federal Government plan to establish fully bulk-billing GP clinics in regional New South Wales has triggered strong criticism from general practitioners, who say the move could undermine existing practices.
18 May 2026
GPs call for better understanding of alcohol and drug stigma
GPs and other health professionals are speaking up about the impact of stigma linked to alcohol and other drug (AOD) use, saying it can prevent patients from getting timely and appropriate care.
18 May 2026
Tasmania introduces IVF rebate to make fertility treatment more affordable
The Tasmanian Government has announced a new support program to help reduce the cost of fertility treatment, offering eligible residents a rebate of up to $2,000 for in vitro fertilisation (IVF) and other fertility services.
18 May 2026
Free green whistles introduced for IUD procedures across Victoria
Women accessing IUD insertions or removals at Victorian Women’s Sexual and Reproductive Health Hubs can now receive free pain relief using Penthrox inhalers, commonly known as green whistles.
18 May 2026
New obesity guideline highlights growing role of GLP-1 medicines in heart health
Australia’s first clinical consensus statement on obesity and cardiovascular disease says medicines such as GLP-1s could play an important role in reducing heart disease risk through better obesity management.
15 May 2026
Budget brings some wins but many gaps for general practice
This week in Canberra had a strong focus on the Federal Budget, with health groups closely watching for changes that affect general practice and the wider health system.
15 May 2026
New Board Chair focuses on equity and improving access to healthcare
South Western Sydney PHN has appointed Karen Edwards as its new Board Chair, with a strong focus on improving healthcare access, equity, and service delivery across the region.