This report outlines the results of a survey of 561 rural, regional and remote doctors. Respondents identified the most pressing policy priorities, in order, as rural hospitals; general practice; workforce; support for reskilling, upskilling and maintaining skills; access to non-GP specialist services; financial incentives; medical training; professional support; undergraduate medical education; and technology.

Providing appropriate funding and and resources to ensure adequate staffing levels, up-to-date facilities and equipment, and access to ancillary services was rated as critically or very important by 90% of survey respondents. This has been the number one issue over the past four surveys. Rural doctor workforce shortages continue and further investment is needed to encourage medical practitioners to live and work outside metropolitan areas.

Ensuring rural health professionals and communities are involved in policymaking decisions was rated as critically or very important by 89.5%. Enhancing access to specialist outreach services that are integrated with local services was rated as critically or very important by 85% of respondents.