Building stronger teams, embracing technology and improving financial sustainability were key themes at SWSPHN’s 2026 GP conference.
Held on Sunday, 18 October at The William Inglis Hotel, Warwick Farm, the conference Future-proofing general practice: a deep dive on viability and sustainability brought together 59 GPs, practice managers and general practice staff to explore practical strategies to strengthen the long-term viability of general practice.
Proceedings began with an Acknowledgement of Country delivered by Uncle Tony Scholes, Chair of Gandangara Local Aboriginal Land Council.
The conference addressed growing pressures facing general practices across South Western Sydney, including workforce shortages, staff burnout, financial challenges and an ageing GP workforce.
It also featured expert-led presentations and interactive sessions covering artificial intelligence (AI), employment management, effective leadership, workforce development and Medicare Benefits Schedule (MBS) billing.
Macquarie University AI Lecturer Greg Baker explored how AI is changing patient behaviour and influencing clinical care, highlighting opportunities for general practices to navigate emerging technologies and support safer patient care.
Attendees then participated in concurrent sessions tailored to the needs of GPs, practice managers and general practice staff.
Wise Workplace Training’s Eden Elliott-Griggs focused on building positive employment relationships, covering recruitment, staff retention, workplace responsibilities and managing employee performance.
MediCoach Director Kim Poyner explored effective leadership, managing change and building stronger practice teams. Sessions also examined how digital workflows, practice data and succession planning can improve efficiency and support long-term sustainability.
The afternoon focused on strengthening financial sustainability through effective MBS billing, with Primary Care Consultant and MBS specialist Wendy O’Meara delivering practical sessions on maximising billing opportunities, navigating MBS requirements and ensuring accurate, compliant billing.
The conference provided an opportunity for general practice teams to strengthen their knowledge, share experiences and explore strategies to build more resilient, efficient and sustainable practices.
By equipping general practices with practical business, workforce and digital health strategies, SWSPHN continues to support a strong primary healthcare system which meets the changing needs of South Western Sydney communities.
