Australia’s healthcare system is under pressure, with workforce shortages looming over primary health care. While medicine remains a highly sought-after profession, fewer professionals are choosing roles in this sector, despite its critical role in the community.
Primary health care workers—GPs, nurses, pharmacists, physiotherapists, psychologists, occupational therapists, and podiatrists—are often the first point of contact for patients. Yet, misconceptions about career growth and professional development discourage many from considering these roles.
The problem is compounded by an ageing workforce. In 2021, 15.6% of GPs were aged 65 or over, and projections suggest a shortfall of over 21,000 nurses by 2035. A lack of awareness about opportunities in primary health care is leading to gaps in coverage, especially in rural and remote communities.
Chinese GP Dr Dong Hua believes outdated perceptions about primary health care need to be corrected. “People tend to think GPs just do scripts and referrals, but it’s much broader than that. We manage complex conditions using skills from various specialties. I want to address the patient’s whole health, not just a piece of it.”
Aged care nurse Shrijana Gautam spent a decade in the sector, moving from a registered nurse to clinical care manager, and now leads a team of over 180 as a general manager. “Working in the primary health sector has given me so many opportunities to grow my career,” she says.
Flexibility is another overlooked benefit. Professionals can choose to work in cities or regional areas while developing deep ties with their communities. Dr Hua, who set up a clinic in the neighbourhood where he grew up, reflects on the experience: “I’m really proud of what we have achieved here. I have treated their parents, their kids, and their kids’ kids.”
The impact of primary health care professionals extends beyond routine check-ups. India-born GP Dr Lester Mascarenhas has been serving the refugee community for years. “For me, it’s about building trust with patients and seeing them improve over time,” he says.
For some, the profession is a second or even third career that brings fulfilment. Vietnamese-born physiotherapist Dr Ken Nguyen transitioned from law to actuarial science before finding his calling in healthcare. “You deal with work accidents, elderly patients, children with developmental challenges, and witness their recovery. It’s quite rewarding to see that progress.”
The rise of multicultural professionals in primary health care is making a difference, especially in communities where language and cultural barriers often prevent people from seeking treatment. Turkish-born psychologist Firdevs Tat recalls when there were only two Turkish-speaking psychologists in the country. Today, Census data estimates there are around 100, many working to destigmatise mental health care within their communities.
Iraq-born optometrist Mohammed Alebrahimi believes more professionals should consider the sector. “It’s an amazing job. You work alongside clinicians from different disciplines to serve the community. It’s a hidden gem, and the impact happens one person and one case at a time.”
With an ageing population and an increasing demand for healthcare services, primary health care remains an untapped career path filled with opportunities for growth, impact, and purpose. The challenge now is to shift perceptions and highlight the role of these professionals in shaping a healthier future for Australia.
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