Journalists wanting to speak to an ACRRM spokesperson are invited to contact Petrina Smith on 0414 820 847 or email.

Childcare shortages are forcing Rural Generalist doctors to reduce their working hours and putting opportunities to recruit and retain essential healthcare workers at risk, the Australian College of Rural and Remote Medicine (ACRRM) warns. 

In its submission to the Senate inquiry into early childhood education and care in rural, regional and remote communities, ACRRM says accessible, quality early education must be recognised as essential infrastructure for rural and remote healthcare. 

ACRRM President Dr Rod Martin says attracting doctors requires communities where their families can build a life. 

“We cannot ask doctors to move to rural and remote communities without making sure their families can access the services they need,” Dr Martin says. 

“When childcare is unavailable, doctors may have to reduce their hours or reconsider whether they can stay. 

“In a community with only one or a handful of doctors, that has consequences for everyone who needs care.” 

In its submission, ACRRM says members reported lengthy waits for early education services, including a two-year waitlist for prep in one town and a doctor still unable to secure a kindergarten place after 10 months. 

The College points to Kangaroo Island Medical Clinic as an example of a local response. Supported by an ACRRM community grant in 2025, the clinic established a childcare service for its team, helping it attract registrars and Fellows. 

“When we invest in the services that support doctors and their families, we strengthen a community’s ability to attract and keep its healthcare workforce,” Dr Martin says. 

ACRRM is calling for sustained investment in rural early education services, infrastructure and educators, with flexible local models that meet the needs of different communities and families. 

“Rural workforce planning needs to look beyond the consulting room. 

“A childcare place can help make a rural medical career possible - and help a community keep the doctor it needs.”