More Rural Generalists training where Queensland needs them most

Queensland communities will benefit from more Rural Generalists (RGs) training and working in areas of greatest need, with more than 145 doctors commencing the ACRRM Fellowship program in 2026. 

2026 commencements are 40 per cent higher than in 2025, with training kicking off today (19 January) as 70 registrars undertake orientation. 

ACRRM President Dr Rod Martin says the growth reflects increasing interest in Rural Generalist Medicine and the strength of ACRRM’s Fellowship program. 

“These doctors are choosing to train where they are most needed – in rural, remote, and First Nations communities,” Dr Martin says. 

“ACRRM training is built around community need.  

“Our registrars live, work, and train in the towns that rely on them, improving access to high-quality medical care now and into the future.” 

Doctors training through the ACRRM Fellowship provide care across a broad scope of practice, including primary care, emergency medicine, and hospital care.  

As RGs, they train in the full scope of general practice, as well as an additional advanced specialist area. 

“That means they undertake an additional 12 months of training in an area of interest and need, from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health, anaesthetics, emergency medicine, mental health, obstetrics, paediatrics, surgery, and more,” Dr Martin explains. 

“Being a RG is an exciting career, where no two days look the same. 

“In the morning you could be delivering a baby, and by the afternoon you are managing a trauma case. “The next day you could be supporting a patient’s mental health.  

“RGs are an essential part of every community.” 

Dr Martin says the increase in trainee numbers is encouraging but highlights the importance of ongoing support for rural and remote medical training. 

“This strong start to the year is good news, but it’s only the beginning,” he says. 

“Sustained investment in Rural Generalist training pathways is essential if we are to build a stable, skilled medical workforce for communities outside urban areas.” 

Applications to train with ACRRM in 2027 are now open. Find out more at acrrm.org.au/fellowship.