Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander doctors in training are facing unacceptable levels of racism and discrimination, according to the latest Medical Training Survey (MTS) results.
The 2025 findings show that more than half (56%) of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander trainees have experienced bullying, discrimination, harassment (including sexual harassment) and racism, almost double the national average of 30%.
While survey participation from First Nations trainees continues to grow, the persistence, and in some cases escalation of these harmful behaviours underscores the urgent need for systemic change. Latest figures show that 38% of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander trainees have reported experiencing and/or witnessing racism in their training to become specialists.
Australian Indigenous Doctors’ Association (AIDA) President, Dr Jonathan Newchurch, says that these statistics are deeply concerning and demand immediate action: “Our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander medical workforce is critical to improving health outcomes for our Communities. They bring cultural knowledge and understanding that benefits all Australians. Yet these results show racism and discrimination remain entrenched. This is unacceptable.”
Dr Newchurch warns the consequences are far-reaching: “Australia faces significant shortages in the GP workforce, particularly in rural and remote areas. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander doctors are more likely to work in these Communities. If we fail to create safe and supportive environments, we risk losing doctors who are essential to closing the health gap.”
One area of improvement indicated in the survey is that the number of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander trainees indicating they are now considering leaving medicine within the next 12 months has halved to one in six, compared to about one in three in 2024.
“It’s encouraging to see that in the last twelve months, the number of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander doctors considering leaving medicine has decreased. Nonetheless, AIDA continues to call for urgent action to create culturally safe workplaces and dismantle systemic barriers where every doctor in training is supported to continue their medical career should they choose to do so,” says Dr Jonathan Newchurch.
Through programs such as the Specialist Trainee Support Program, AIDA provides practical support for trainees and works with specialist colleges to address cultural safety, financial burden, and training challenges.
AIDA also delivers Cultural Safety Training workshops, designed by and delivered by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander doctors to foster inclusivity and respect.
Closing the gap requires a shared responsibility and unwavering commitment from every part of the medical profession. Together, we must act now to ensure a future where Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander doctors can thrive.
ENDS
About AIDA
The Australian Indigenous Doctors’ Association (AIDA) is the peak professional body for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander doctors and medical students. AIDA’s purpose is to strengthen the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander medical workforce, from students to specialists, through advocacy, leadership, and cultural mentorship.
We also continue to work towards and advocate for a culturally safe Australian healthcare system, free from racism, and with accountability measures in place. Our vision is that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people have self-determination and equitable health and life outcomes in a culturally safe health system.
09 Dec 2025
Media Release