Advocacy efforts
2026 Queensland Budget
There was little fanfare around the 2026 state budget, the second from the current LNP government.
While the $35.5 billion health funding envelope was hailed as a “record” spend, it only represents a 7.25% increase from last year, falling short of what AMA Queensland believes is needed to keep pace with population growth, demand and inflation.
We welcome the increase to the Patient Travel Subsidy Scheme fuel rebate, which will provide some relief for rural and regional Queenslanders who must travel long distances for care. However, we believe greater investment in public hospital capacity is needed to ensure more patients can access treatment closer to home.
We are disappointed the government’s health workforce plan was not released with the budget, particularly given projected workforce shortages in the coming years.
The government did reiterate its pledge to spend the mental health levy on boosting mental health services, but we want greater clarity on how and when revenue will be invested to improve access to preventive and community-based mental health services.
Overall, we believe stronger long-term investment is needed to ensure Queenslanders can access timely healthcare when and where they need it.
Meeting the Minister
We were pleased to begin the month with a meeting with Health Minister Tim Nicholls.
We discussed key issues facing doctors and the health sector, such as the need to grow our workforce and improve maternity services.
We also talked about the importance of promoting preventive health measures such as the free flu vaccination program and encouraging more parents to take up the FluMist nasal spray vaccine for under-18s.
Being a member of AMA Queensland ensures your voice is represented where it counts, and we look forward to continuing to engage with the Minister and his department.
e-Mobility devices
New legislation governing the use of e-mobility devices came into force in Queensland on 1 July.
While there are some welcome measures such as speed limits, helmet requirements and tougher penalties for using e-bikes or e-scooters while affected by alcohol, we remain disappointed the government’s decision to walk back a ban on under 16s using this equipment.
The parliamentary inquiry into e-mobility devices had recommended such a ban in line with our submission. We still believe this is the simplest and clearest way to prevent injuries, reduce confusion about who can ride and when, and protect our young people.
In a meeting with Transport Minister Brett Mickelberg, we urged the department to consider a 12-month review of the new laws to monitor emergency presentations and accident reports involving these devices.
Past President Dr Maria Boulton appeared on Channel Nine’s Today show to discuss the kinds of injuries doctors are seeing regularly which have given us such cause for alarm, and the need for more education and better infrastructure to support safe riding.
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Assignment of Medicare benefit changes
AMA Queensland’s federal advocacy had a significant win in June with the delay of controversial assignment of Medicare benefit changes.
Our representatives met with the Federal Health Minister at a government roundtable in Brisbane on 17 June, describing the move to require electronic consent from 1 July as not allowing medical practices enough time to implement new systems.
The next day Minister Butler announced a 12-month pause to allow for a smoother transition.
We also raised concerns over other concerns around reducing verbal consent, particularly for patients without easy digital access and for vulnerable patients in residential aged care.
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News
AMA Queensland Education and Training Institute
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Events
Women in Medicine Breakfast Cairns
Cairns turned on great weather and greater company for a series of AMA Queensland events in mid-June, including our Member Networking evening and Roadshow for GPs and non-GP specialists.
Vice President Dr Sarah Coll was among the speakers at our Women in Medicine breakfast on 19 June, which brought together attendees from across North Queensland to celebrate the achievements, leadership and contributions of women in medicine.
Guests enjoyed a morning of networking, inspiring presentations and meaningful conversations, with speakers sharing their experiences, insights and practical strategies for navigating the challenges and opportunities of a medical career.
Junior Doctor Conference
Registrations have been coming thick and fast for our 2026 Junior Doctor Conference on 25-26 July.
This popular event brings together experienced speakers and sponsors to share their wit and wisdom about career pathways, professional opportunities and lifestyle benefits available to doctors in training.
Meet friends, make connections and feel inspired to take on the world.
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2026 Annual Conference
AMA Queensland remains unique in our yearly offering of an incredible annual conference in a fantastic overseas destination.
In 2026 we’re heading to Copenhagen for six days of expert talks, site visits, historical intrigue and plenty of smørrebrød.
Join us from 20-26 September in the remarkable Danish capital.