AMA Victoria welcomes Ahpra’s efforts to introduce equity into registration fees for practitioners on extended leave due to legally protected attributes, such as parental or carer responsibilities and disability. This includes a 30% retrospective rebate, a review of the transition between practising and non-practising registration, and a commitment to considering pro rata fees and broader equity principles in future fee-setting arrangements.

These reforms represent a positive step forward and are a testament to the collective advocacy efforts of AMA Victoria, our members, and supporters. Your voices, expressed through our petition and ongoing dialogue, have played a key role in driving these changes.
 

Progress, but more work needed

While we acknowledge these positive developments, it is important to emphasise that they represent only a first step. The 30% retrospective rebate, though acknowledged as an interim measure, is not an appropriate long-term solution. Consideration of practitioner income levels would deliver a more equitable approach, and a more fulsome achievement in embedding the principles of equity and providing for a flexible workforce. Such an approach is used widely within medicolegal indemnity, although income is not the only measure considered by those organisations in premium determination; risk is also relevant. Accordingly, Ahpra must now prioritise developing the capability to implement pro-rata fees, commit to this as a long-term goal, and provide a clear implementation timeline.

The rebate’s quantum also warrants comment. Requiring practitioners to take a minimum of 50%- and up to 100%- of a registration year as leave to qualify for the 30% retrospective rebate may limit its practical benefit. While we acknowledge that this measure is temporary, it remains important to ensure that future equity-focused solutions are better aligned with practitioners’ needs and expectations. We hope this can be realised through Ahpra's announced wider review into a potential pro rata fee strategy.
 

Non-practising registration must be fit for purpose

Ahpra’s commitment to reviewing practising and non-practising registration policies is similarly a positive development. AMA Victoria has long argued that non-practising registration is inadequate for practitioners on parental leave. Clear guidelines are urgently needed to define the appropriate use of non-practising registration and prevent it from being misused as a temporary solution. Without these changes, practitioners temporarily stepping away from the workforce will remain underserved.
 

What we want to see

AMA Victoria urges Ahpra to:

• Ensure the 30% retrospective rebate remains an interim measure only, while further work is undertaken.
• Commit to implementing pro-rata fees once the necessary systems are developed.
• Develop the capability for pro-rata fees and provide a clear implementation timeline.
• Document clear guidelines outlining the intended and appropriate purposes of non-practising registration.
   

Acknowledging your efforts

Ahpra’s announcement reflects your efforts and advocacy, particularly through AMA Victoria’s petition. We extend our thanks to the many practitioners and their allies who signed the petition, shared their experiences, and supported this cause.
 

Looking ahead

Ahpra’s recognition of the importance of equity in its fee structures is a promising start. However, equity must be embedded more deeply, and pro rata fees must become the standard. Non-practising registration must also be reformed to better meet the needs of practitioners taking temporary leave.

AMA Victoria will continue to hold Ahpra to account to ensure these steps lead to meaningful, long-term change. Your support has made this progress possible, and together we will keep pushing for a fairer, more equitable system.

Let’s ensure Ahpra moves from commitment to action- and truly walks the walk on equity.

Media links

• AMA Victoria update: Ahpra takes steps towards fairer registration fees | AMA Victoria
• Parental leave fee relief on the way | Ahpra
• AHPRA cuts rego fees by 30% for doctors on long-term leave | AusDoc
• AHPRA fees reduced for parental leave | Medical Republic
• Petition: Ahpra should act fairly and equitably | Megaphone
• Ahpra agrees to leave fee relief | Australian Medical Association