News
In Practice: Pharmacy Board prescribing consultation open
Two RACGP webinars will discuss the plan, which could have significant implications for prescribing and diagnostic responsibilities.
The RACGP will provide a submission to the Pharmacy Board of Australia’s proposed registration-level endorsement for pharmacist prescribing.
This week’s In Practice also includes information on an upcoming webinar about identifying health issues in adult patients with an intellectual disability, a West Australian clinical update, and nominations for the RACGP Awards.
Pharmacy Board consultation
The Pharmacy Board of Australia is consulting on a proposed registration-level endorsement for pharmacist prescribing, with the consultation open until 15 June. This is a major structural regulatory decision with implications for how prescribing and diagnostic responsibility are managed over time.
The RACGP will provide a submission with a clear focus on continuity of care, patient safety, and how risk is governed across the health system. Members are also invited to provide a submission.
RACGP President Dr Michael Wright is hosting two briefings to help members better understand:
- what is being proposed
- key regulatory considerations
- how the college is representing general practice in this consultation.
More details about the briefings will be shared soon.
Lamotrigine for bipolar disorder now on PBS
Lamotrigine (5 mg, 25 mg, 50 mg, 100 mg, 200 mg tablet) for the treatment of bipolar disorder is now listed on the PBS as a restricted benefit.
To align with PBS listing changes, forms are updated on the first of the month. Using the most recent form will help avoid delays in obtaining authority approval. The most recent forms can be found via a search on the Services Australia website. More information about the Online PBS Authorities system is
available online.
RACGP Awards: Nominations closing soon
There is less than a month left to nominate an inspiring GP, registrar, supervisor or educator for the 2026 RACGP Awards. Nominations carry real weight – they tell a colleague their commitment to their patients, community and profession has not gone unnoticed.
Nominations close 9.00 am (AEST), Monday 1 June and can be done via the
RACGP website.
Take the next step with the RACGP Mentoring Program
Applications for the 2026 RACGP Mentoring Program are in their final weeks.
Join as a mentor or mentee and build valuable professional connections while strengthening confidence and career in general practice. Mentors support New Fellows, share experience and help shape sustainable careers across the profession. Mentees receive personalised one-to-one guidance on career direction, professional decisions and the next stage of practice.
The program is flexible, structured and CPD accredited. Applications close 31 May 2026. For more information and to apply, visit the
RACGP website.
Identifying health issues in adult patients with an intellectual disability
Webinar: Monday 18 May, 7.30 – 8.30 pm (AEST)
CPD: 1 EA hour
Register online
This webinar will discuss the role of GPs in assessment and care planning for adults with intellectual disability. Develop a formal care team review using regular planned case conferencing and discuss upskilling in a GP Chronic Care Management Plan specific to the needs of patients with intellectual disability.
The session will also outline how GPs can help ensure optimal access to care for one of the most disadvantaged groups within their patient population and demonstrate how developing skills in both areas can be achieved.
WA Clinical Update 2026
Date: Saturday 6 June, 8.00 am – 5.30 pm (AWST)
Venue: Beaumonde on the Point, East Perth
Western Australia’s first Clinical Update is a full day of practical, evidence‑based updates. Led by GPs for GPs, the program will cover respiratory care, women’s health, GP wellbeing, and more. The event will be followed by a relaxed sundowner to connect with colleagues. Early bird
registrations are now open.
Department of Veterans’ Affairs updates
The Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA) has released several new documents aimed at supporting the best interests of veterans and families of veterans.
This includes
Provider integrity principles and expectations, setting clear standards to protect the integrity of the veteran support system and veteran wellbeing, as well as an explainer on
Right of Return Cards: Helping veterans get home sooner.
Expressions of interest are also now open for the Open Arms National Advisory Committee. This committee is for individuals who want to contribute to the mental health and wellbeing of veterans and their families by joining the Open Arms National Advisory Committee.
DVA Provider News will also be evolving to
DVA Provider e-News, a monthly digital newsletter that brings together key updates, program information and resources relevant to healthcare providers’ work with veterans and their families. Current subscribers will be automatically subscribed.
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Department of Veterans’ Affairs lamotrigine PBS pharmacy prescribing RACGP Awards
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