What’s happening?
The Australian Medical Association has added its voice to a campaign led by Independent MP Dr Monique Ryan, calling for medical students to be included in the federal prac payment scheme. The proposed amendment would remove a key funding gap and bring medical students in line with other professions that already receive financial assistance during mandatory placements.
Why it matters
Despite being required to complete 2,000 hours of clinical training, medical students receive no prac payment support — unlike nursing and midwifery students. These placements often occur in rural or remote regions and come with costs for travel, accommodation and time away from part-time work. For many, it’s a financial strain.
AMA President Dr Danielle McMullen believes this has long-term consequences. “Students who train in regional settings are more likely to stay. We should support that,” she said.
Local Impact
The funding gap makes it harder for students to take on rural placements, potentially reducing their interest in returning to those areas to practise. That impacts small communities already facing major doctor shortages. Easing the cost of placements could allow more students to experience and commit to working in regional healthcare.
By the numbers:
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2,000 hours of unpaid placements are required by all medical students.
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More than 290,000 signatures have been collected in support of the amendment.
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Zero support currently exists for medical placements under the federal scheme.
Zoom In
The AMA argues that rural placements are more than just a course requirement — they’re an essential way to grow a long-term rural workforce. If students have a positive and financially manageable placement experience, they’re more likely to consider rural practice in the future.
Zoom Out
Broader concerns over healthcare access in regional Australia are driving this reform. In many areas, health services remain stretched, with patients facing limited availability and long waits. Support for student placements is being seen as a small but necessary step in building a stronger rural healthcare system.
What to look for next?
The fate of Dr Ryan’s amendment will show whether the government is ready to act on structural healthcare gaps. If passed, it may shift how rural placements are funded and spark change across both the education and health sectors.
