GP networking events, planned for the Southern NSW region in June, are being hosted by COORDINARE - South Eastern NSW PHN to foster connections within the GP community. 

Events will be held in Nowra, Sussex Inlet, Milton, Batemans Bay, Moruya, Narooma, Bega, Merimbula and Eden by COORDINARE in collaboration with GP colleges, RACGP (The Royal Australian College of General Practitioners) and ACRRM (Australian College of Rural and Remote Medicine). 

Dr Erica Cameron-Taylor, one of COORDINARE'S Medical Directors, said studies* demonstrate that doctors are more likely to continue regional and rural practice when they have opportunities to meet local doctors within the area and form professional relationships.  

“These events are becoming increasingly popular with more than 70 participants last year, which is an increase from 50 participants in 2024. These numbers are significant given the small-town populations and limited number of GPs in our region. Many attendees represented were GP registrars, with notable participation from medical students,” she said. 

"Social connection is a critical protective factor against burnout and mental health decline, and these gatherings offer a meaningful way for practitioners to share experiences, build resilience, and feel more supported in their roles. 

“Developing connectedness can also have a significant influence on a doctor’s intention to continue to practice regionally or rurally. By fostering peer relationships, informal support, and professional connection, these events help mitigate the isolation often experienced in rural and remote settings. 

Supporting the recruitment and retention of GPs in rural and regional areas is a priority for us in improving patient outcomes, as access to healthcare can be a significant challenge in these areas.  

"Doctors need other doctors that they can talk to, to share concerns, ideas and socialise with and that this has a big impact on quality of life and practice. These relaxed networking events aim strengthen professional connections, support rural GP retention, and foster a sense of community among general practitioners, registrars, supervisors, junior medical officers, and medical students,” added Dr Cameron-Taylor. 

Dr Rod Martin, President of the Australian College of Rural and Remote Medicine (ACRRM), says Rural Generalist Medicine is built on relationships as much as clinical skills. 

“No doctor should feel professionally isolated, particularly in rural and remote communities where the demands of practice can be intense,” he said. 

“We’ve seen firsthand how simply bringing people together can spark mentoring relationships, strengthen local support networks and help doctors feel part of a professional community. 

“That sense of connection matters — not just for doctors, but for the sustainability of healthcare services in rural communities,” said Dr Martin. 

COORDINARE and the GP colleges (RACGP and ACRRM) often join forces to support general practice and the GP workforce in Australia. This collaboration includes workforce planning, education, and support for general practices. You can read more here. 

Dates and times of the June GP networking events available via this link 

*Developing interconnectedness is critical in retaining rural general practitioners: A qualitative thematic analysis of recently recruited general practitioners to South East New South Wales, Australia.