How registrars teach supervisors

One of the surprising benefits of being a supervisor is when the registrar teaches the teacher. This paradoxical kickback is often unwittingly done and quietly received. It’s one of the reasons that having a registrar can make the supervisor a better doctor.  

How is this done? I would suggest three ways.  

1. When teaching, the teacher learns from the material they present. From my own experience, even with rehashed material there is always something I learn or am reminded of. Explaining something means thinking about how to explain it, which means knowing the material. Having a registrar to teach means a lift in one's knowledge. 

2. Registrars come from hospitals or other practices where new treatments and regimes are applied. This is a fast track to becoming cognisant of the latest developments, including bureaucratic processes, new technology and new ideas. Having a registrar drags one, sometimes reluctantly but always beneficially, into the future. 

3. Watching a registrar grow as a doctor reminds me of what it was like to start as a general practitioner. It’s a reminder of the things that are important. It’s helpful to look back on one's professional journey and see the progress that has been made. It is also a reminder to mend possible bad habits that have developed, cutting corners or general blunting. It maintains a better philosophy of the work that is done.  Having a registrar keeps one sharp. 

Dr Tim Chappell  
General Practitioner at Fulham GP 
Supervisor Liaison Officer, WA 

Connect with your local SLO here.

Changes to the RACGP Flexible Funds policy

We've made some important changes to our Flexible Funds policy, which could impact the amount you can claim for RACGP supervisor professional development events. These changes apply from 2025.2: 

• Supervisors working in MM2-7 can now claim travel costs for face-to-face RACGP professional development events. 

• Supervisors providing remote supervision can now claim for completion of the Remote supervision in GP training module, as well as the Foundations of a GP supervision program modules. 

• ATO rates now apply to all accommodation bookings and claims. 

• ATO rates apply to all mileage claims. 

• Flights booked must be the cheapest economy fare and the most direct option available. 

Please take a look at the updated Supervisor professional development document and reach out to your regional team if you have any questions. 

Updated orientation checklists

We have updated our orientation checklists following consultation with practice manager liaison officers and supervisor liaison officers. The single checklist has been replaced by three targeted checklists:  

1. A checklist for practice managers for use before the placement, including reminders about obtaining provider numbers and Medicare paperwork, completing contracts and setting up practice systems before the registrar's arrival.    

2. An orientation checklist for practices with GPT1 registrars that incorporates the Early Assessment for Safety and Learning. It includes a draft two-day timeline where most items on the checklist can be completed.  

3. An orientation checklist for practices with GPT2, GPT3 or extended skills registrars that recommends at least the first half day of the placement is set aside for orientation. 

The checklists have also incorporated suggestions from the GP Registrar Wellbeing Project and a reminder about discussing AI tools with the registrar.

All checklists can be downloaded and edited for your practice context. They're available in the training management system under AGPT supervisor resources and on our website.

2025.2 education calendars

The 2025.2 out-of-practice education calendars are available via the RACGP website. Each region will contain the same information however the dates of events will vary according to local planning. Your local training team will send you specific information for your registrar.   

2026.1 and 2026.2 placement process dates

Mark these key dates in your calendar, they’re part of the RACGP placement process, which is built to give both registrars and training sites greater transparency, flexibility and choice.  

We’ve also made some changes to the placement process in response to survey feedback from 2300 supervisors, practice managers and registrars. Find out more about the improvements we’re making here.  

Remember that priority placement support is available, and our local training support teams are ready to guide you through every step of the process. We know your needs can vary, and we're here to help. 

Supervisor liaison officer opportunities – Vic/NT

Are you a passionate and experienced supervisor based in North East rural Victoria or the Northern Territory? The RACGP is seeking expressions of interest for supervisor liaison officer (SLO) positions in these regions.  

This unique opportunity allows you to advocate for your fellow supervisors, contribute to the development of processes that support high-quality GP training and represent your region at a national level. As a current RACGP-accredited supervisor, your voice and insights are vital in shaping a supportive, sustainable and forward-thinking training environment. 

Visit our website to apply or reach out to the Talent Acquisition team at recruit@racgp.org.au 

Contact us

For any queries about the information enclosed, please contact your local training team.