As a GP at First Care Medical Centre in Bankstown, Dr Anju Aggarwal gets the chance to share her passion for educating the community every day. Her greatest satisfaction comes from building long‑term relationships with her patients and seeing their health improve under her care.
How long have you been a GP and how long have you been practising in the region?
I have been a medical practitioner for more than 30 years, with more than 25 years in general practice. I have worked in South Western Sydney for more than 15 years.
What prompted you to pursue a career as a GP?
I genuinely love my work and cannot imagine doing anything else. I often tell my family not to ask me about retirement because I enjoy my profession so much. As a child, I dreamed of adventurous careers like becoming a pilot and travelling the world, but when it came time to choose a path, my friends and I all chose medicine — and I have never looked back.
What do you love most about being a GP? What part of the job gives you the most satisfaction?
The greatest satisfaction comes from the long‑term relationships I build with patients, particularly those with chronic conditions. Seeing their happiness and improved wellbeing reminds me I have made a meaningful difference in their lives.
What do you think is the most important thing your practice contributes to your community?
I am deeply involved in community education through public forums and local group sessions. These cover topics such as women’s health, falls prevention and bone health. Group settings often help people feel more comfortable asking questions, which leads to better engagement and understanding.
What is it you love about South Western Sydney?
South Western Sydney is a diverse community with significant socio‑economic needs. Many residents face barriers to accessing specialist care, which means GPs play a crucial role in ensuring they receive appropriate support and follow‑up. I feel I can make a greater impact here.
What do you like to do in your spare time?
I am a classical dancer and enjoy painting when I have the time. I also regularly walk with a group of doctors — mostly GPs — which gives us the chance to catch up, debrief, and share ideas. It’s a wonderful source of support for all of us.
Do you have any role models and why?
I have been fortunate to have many role models throughout my life. My mother – a university mathematics professor – and my father – a solicitor – were early influences. I also had inspiring teachers at school, and during my general practice training I was guided by excellent supervisors who motivated and shaped me.
What advice do you give your patients about maintaining good health?
I offer three simple, practical pieces of advice. The first one is walk for at least 15 minutes a day. If 30 minutes feels too much, start with 15 — it often naturally becomes more. The second is to eat simply and make healthy choices. Prioritise vegetables and fruit, reduce carbohydrate intake such as rice and bread, and choose homemade meals over takeaway. Lastly, I advise my patients to spend time with like-minded people. Positive social connections are essential for good mental health.
This article appeared in Practice Pulse on Wednesday, 6 May 2026. If you are a GP, practice nurse or practice manager in South Western Sydney and do not get the weekly Practice Pulse email, speak to your Practice Support Officer.
