SLO Advisory Council: 2025 Achievements
The Supervisor Liaison Officer Advisory Council (SLOAC) convened across three meetings in 2025 to address key issues affecting GP supervision, registrar training, and workforce sustainability. The discussions focused on administrative challenges, policy changes, and strategic initiatives to support supervisors and improve training outcomes.
Key Issues and Actions:
1. Supervisor Workload and Accreditation
Supervisors reported ongoing administrative burdens, particularly around accreditation and registrar placement. The Council advocated for streamlined, unified accreditation processes across RACGP and ACRRM to reduce duplication and improve efficiency.
2. Supervisor Professional Development
Concerns were raised about inconsistent PD recognition between colleges. The Council supported collaborative PD opportunities and called for clearer communication from college leadership to promote joint participation.
3. Registrar Allocation and Placement
The current one-week allocation process was deemed too compressed. Suggestions included extending the timeline and implementing a ranking system to better match registrars and practices, reducing pressure on supervisors. This discussion is ongoing with supervisors encouraged to provide feedback.
4. Parental Leave Policy
The introduction of 20 weeks paid parental leave for registrars prompted discussion on its impact on practice caps, continuity of care, and training schedules. Colleges agreed to manage placements flexibly and on a case-by-case basis.
5. Temporary Resident Registrars
With a significant increase in temporary resident doctors entering AGPT in 2026, the Council highlighted visa and sponsorship challenges. Recommendations included developing FAQs, targeted support, and clearer communication strategies.
6. NTCER and Employment Models
Discussions addressed contractor vs employee status, fatigue management, and SEM implementation. The Council recommended standardised, transparent employment policies and clearer contractual expectations.
7. Supervisor Succession Planning
Strategies to attract new supervisors included leadership development, reduced college fees, and recognition of supervisory roles. A Supervisor Education Committee was proposed to support these efforts.
8. Ongoing collaboration with RLOs
The Council endorsed a combined RLO/SLO meeting in early 2026
Co-Chairs: Dr Candice Baker, Dr Sue Harrison and Dr Tim Chappell