The RACGP Hackathon returned for 2026 and was once again a huge success. The event showcased the potential that can be achieved with outstanding collaboration, purpose, and a solutions-focused approach. It also proves to us all that innovation with purpose is alive and well in general practice.
Across 13–15 March in Sydney, on Gadigal Country, general practitioners (GPs) worked alongside technology experts and entrepreneurs to rapidly develop workable solutions to common challenges facing general practice. This year, we welcomed 51 participants, along with mentors, subject matter experts and facilitators to provide support as groups brainstormed and refined their ideas.
Seven teams pitched amazing original ideas, presenting technology-driven solutions for issues such as information and administration overload, improving prevention or care coordination, and providing clearer patient information.
The winning group, Team Debrief, inspired the judges with their vision for a better use of artificial intelligence to transform case analysis, reflect and review feedback on consultations, and improve clinical supervision. It was a real privilege to sit on the judging panel alongside RACGP Vice President and Western Australia Chair Dr Ramya Raman, Healthengine founder and GP Dr Marcus Tan, and Deputy Secretary for Health Resourcing, Penny Shakespeare. We were impressed and inspired by the solution presented by the winning team – which has potential to support improving quality of care for patients, as well as work–life balance for GPs.
Congratulations to Team Debrief members Dr Hamish Graham, Dr Yasumitsu Takao, Dr Anita Manger, Sajinthan Janahiram, Dr Melanie Smith and Dr Silvia Pfeiffer. I look forward to how your innovative idea can be applied to practice.
Hackathon 2026 winners, Team Debrief.
A huge thank you for the leadership of RACGP Specific Interests Digital Health and Innovation members Dr Sean Stevens, Dr Amandeep Hansra, Dr Janice Tan and Dr Darran Foo, whose vision made this event happen. Thanks also to our partners, and to every GP, technology expert and entrepreneur who brought ideas, energy and heart to solving real-world primary care challenges.
I am incredibly proud the College supports this initiative, which demonstrates the potential for the knowledge of GPs to redesign our health system with the help of IT experts and entrepreneurs. I certainly left the weekend with a real sense of optimism about the future for GPs and our potential to improve and lead our health system. I am looking forward to what Hackathon 2027 will bring!
Hackathon 2026 attendees.