16 December 2025 - Top Stories

Australia continues to demonstrate leadership in health technology and safety. Professor Jeffrey Braithwaite from Macquarie University has been appointed to the US National Academy of Medicine’s AI safety steering group, one of only two non-Americans. His work on leveraging AI and big data to enhance evidence-based care underscores Australia's growing influence in international health AI initiatives. Meanwhile, the Australian government is exploring ways to expand GPs' access to MRI scans, aiming to improve diagnosis times, particularly in rural areas. The RACGP supports these moves, which could broaden primary care scope and reduce hospital delays.

However, systemic challenges remain. The rollout of aged care reforms under the Support at Home program faces early hurdles, including provider concerns over increased costs, delays, and the risk of deepening access inequalities. The sector is also grappling with funding pressures and quality issues, compounded by a rising number of mental health calls to doctor support hotlines, especially in New South Wales. These signals point to the need for sustainable funding models and better workforce support in health services. Additionally, Australia’s AI regulatory framework remains cautious, lacking enforceable safeguards, which could leave gaps as AI technologies become more embedded in healthcare and society.

• Australia’s AI expert joins US safety panel, highlighting international influence.
• Proposals to expand GPs’ MRI requesting rights aim to improve rural diagnosis access.
• Aged care reforms face early implementation issues, risking increased costs and inequalities.
• Community trauma from Bondi shooting underscores mental health support needs.
• Rising calls to doctor support hotlines reflect growing mental health pressures on health workers.
• Australian AI regulation remains cautious, with limited enforcement powers.
• GP-led paediatric care models show promise in reducing hospital referrals and boosting confidence.