00 00

General Practice Registrars Australia Ltd

Annual Report 2010–2011

With you on your journeyGeneral Practice Registrars Australia Ltd

Level 4, 517 Flinders LaneMelbourne Victoria 3001

100

ContentsOur vision

GPRA is the peak voice for the next

generation of general practitioners.

We improve the healthcare of all

Australians through excellence in education and training and ensure

that general practice is the medical

specialty of choice.

2 Chair report

4 Chief Executive Officer report

5 Board of Directors

6 Human Resources update

7 Organisational chart 2010–2011

8 General Practice Registrars Australia

10 Going Places Network

12 General Practice Students Network

14 Corporate governance report

15 Nominations and Remunerations Committee report

16 Directors’ declaration

17 Finance report

18 Independant auditor’s report

19 Statement of Cash Flow

20 Balance Sheet

21 Profit and Loss Statement

22 Notes to the financial statements

2

The last year has seen General Practice Registrars Australia (GPRA) go from strength to strength.

We’ve grown in size and improved our performance across all of our programs, and are delivering better support and information to our key member groups — registrars, junior doctors and students.

Membership to all programs has grown significantly, and this gives us a bigger audience to engage with and promote the diverse ben-efits of general practice to. Based on member numbers, we are the fastest growing medical organisation in the country.

At last count, our GPRA membership had reached 3,570 registrars, Going Places Network had 1,200 junior doctor members (up from 600) and our General Practice Student Network (GPSN) had 6,450 medical student members (up from 5,160).

The increased membership numbers reflect an effective operational response by management to meeting our strategic aims.

This alignment is central to us being able to deliver our three-year strategic plan (2011–2014), which is now in place.

In recognition of the contribution these programs made to attract the new generation of GPs, our core funding contract with the Department of Health and Ageing (DoHA) was renewed. This support is, of course, vital to us continuing to provide top quality products and services.

Our work in the registrar space, our flagship program, has developed through a more intense focus on registrar advocacy issues, training and policy. The core focus of this work is to ensure we continue to be the voice of the next generation of GPs.

And we’ve found new ways to give our members a voice. This year, we’ve set up subcommittees to allow members, who are not Registrar Liaison Officers (RLOs), to formally contribute to policy work at the Advisory Council. We now have six subcommittees and each one looks at an important matter on the registrar landscape.

In terms of advocacy, GPRA released the Safe Working Hours Discussion Paper in June 2011. The paper attracted a strong industry response and media attention. We are continuing to gather feedback to this paper and look forward to working with all groups to improve the status quo for registrars and GPs.

The past year has also seen us build on our vision for strong stakeholder collaboration. We contributed to the general practice environment through our membership with the United General Practice Australia. We’ve also input into the e-health agenda by working with the National E-health Transition Authority (NEHTA), and are watching with interest the development of its exciting initiative, the Personally Controlled Electronic Health Record (PCEHR). Looking ahead, we will be working with Health Workforce Australia (HWA) to input into workforce issues.

We thank our funders, Australian General Practice Training (AGPT) and General Practice Education and Training (GPET) for their continued support, which has enabled us to extend our reach.

Our sponsors have also played a significant part in helping us to connect with the general practitioners of the future. We look forward to working with existing sponsors and introducing new sponsors that complement the work we do.

My GPRA Board colleagues have been instrumental in helping steer the organisation into the great position it is in today. We say good bye to two directors this year — Abhi Varshney and Jennifer Mooi — and thank them for the fantastic contribution they made. We will also bid farewell and thank you to the two co-opted directors whose terms expire in September this year.

This year, we welcomed two new directors — Allison Turnock and Piotr Swierkowski. Allison was the 2010 GPET Registrar of the Year and brings valuable advocacy experience to the board, while Piotr brings a wealth of medical administration and corporate governance knowledge.

Finally, I’d like to acknowledge all staff across the organisation. This includes the Head Office team, led by GPRA CEO Amit Vohra, right through to the Regional Training Providers, Registrar Liaison Officers, GP Network Ambassadors and the GPSN Executive.

The past year has proved that general practice is a great place to be. I’m excited about what the next year will bring and to be part of an inspirational team that is so passionate about promoting the general practice specialty.

Chair report

With you on your journey…GPRA is committed to supporting the next generation of General Practitioners. The GPRA Board has articulated a clear vision and objectives to support our members on their general practice journey — from when they start medical school, throughout their hospital internship and registrar training, and finally when they transition into becoming independent GPs.

The following five objectives form the core of the 2011–2014 strategic plan and ensure that GPRA remains focused on delivering value to our members, stakeholders and the sector.

1. Be the voice for future general practitionersGPRA will raise and respond to general practice advocacy matters so members see us as the best representative organisation on general practice health policy and training issues. In doing so we will work collaboratively with our stakeholders to deliver grassroot solutions and nurture future medical leaders.

2. Develop general practice as the medical specialty of choiceBy continuing to build on our position as the national platform that promotes the specialty of general practice, GPRA will achieve the overarching vision of meeting Australia’s workforce needs and improving the health of Australians.

3. Ensure excellence in general practice education and trainingBy ensuring that education and training is delivered in a fair and effec-tive way with a strong emphasis on quality, GPRA will help the next generation of GPs carry out their services confidently and safely in all communities throughout Australia.

4. Ensure members have sustainable and fulfilling careers in general practiceGPRA promotes the concept of ‘wellbeing’ across the whole spectrum of education and information — clinical, physical, mental, social and financial — to help our members achieve their full potential throughout their general practice career.

5. Have sound governance and follow best business practisesThrough our commitment to good corporate governance and effective operational management, GPRA aims to build on our organisational capability to ensure we remain an ethical and sustainable organisation that is dedicated to supporting the next generation of GPs.

Strategic direction

Wicky Wong — GPRA Chair

3

4 00

Board of Directors

Emily FarrellMary Wyatt

Poitr (Peter) Swierkowski

Allison TurnockWicky Wong

Lana ProutBelinda Guest

o

ooo

oo

o

Milestones 2

010–2011

Here is a s

napshot of

some of

the key m

ilestones t

hat

GPRA has a

chieved ov

er the pas

t year.

1. July 2010

– new GPRA

website for

registrars

gpra.org.a

u launched

2. August 20

10 – new GP FIR

ST contrac

t, which

underpins

GPSN, First W

ave Schola

rship Progr

am and

the Going

Places Net

work, secur

ed

3. October 20

10 – Regio

nal staff a

ppointed t

o manage

the Going

Places Net

work

4. October 20

10 – First

Exam Prep

aration Webina

r held

for GP reg

istrars

5. November 2

010 – GPRA

Board sets

new vision and

three-year

strategic

plan

6. February 2

011 – R-cu

bed website

gets refre

shed

rcubed.org

.au

7. March 2011

– Breathin

g New Life

Conference

in

ParliamentH

ouseCanber

racelebra

tesitsfive-ye

ar

anniversar

y

8. May 2011 –

New Going Place

s Network w

ebsite

gpaustralia

.org.au lau

nched

9. May 2011 –

First Wave s

cholarships

expand to

100

and offere

d at every

University

in Austra

lia with

a medical schoo

l

10. June 20

11 – Going

Places Net

work reache

s 1,000

membersandconfi

rmsambassadorsin

40

teaching h

ospitals

11. June 20

11 – New core

funding c

ontract with

Department o

f Health an

d Ageing (D

oHA) renew

ed

12. June 20

11 – ‘More t

han Money

– A Negoti

ating

Guide for R

egistrars’ l

aunched

Over the past year, General Practice Registrars Australia (GPRA) has laid a sound foundation — at all levels of governance, finance and staffing — to help us continue to meet our objectives as we grow as an organisation, take on new portfolios and extend our reach.

GPRA’s revenue has increased by 61 per cent in the last financial year. We have responded to this growth by strong investment in human resources complemented by a realignment of our structure to deliver well-coordinated services across the new portfolios. The creation of a new Executive team will provide a sustainable senior management structure to support the rest of the staff and help us to meet and exceed our objectives.

This increased capacity means we can now offer more dedicated contact points within the organisation for our three membership groups — registrars, prevocational doctors and medical students — as well as to our stakeholders.

Key initiatives, such as the General Practice Students Network (GPSN), the First Wave Scholarship Program and the Going Places Network, which we developed over the past three years,

continue to flourish and gain credibility with the next generation of general practitioners. These programs are supported by a funding grant from General Practice Education and Training (GPET).

Looking ahead to the next three years, we have renewed our core funding contract with the Department of Health and Ageing (DoHA), thus securing these initiatives and services that we offer to our members.

We are closely evaluating the delivery of our core projects across all three membership groups and trying to provide an aligned support structure for the general practitioners of the future — from when we first meet them as medical students, to when they negotiate their first employment contract with a practice.

In terms of the general practice landscape, registrar issues, such as national minimum terms and conditions, billings and payments, and registrar placements, have been on the forefront in the last 12 months. GPRA has worked with our members to provide feedback on these issues and advocate on their behalf. We’ve kept members informed through broad communication channels, but have also kept in touch by responding to individual enquiries.

Moving forward, we will focus on providing members with support and access to additional services through education, industry-specific research, scholarships and access to professional and personal development resources.

While growth has been a major theme over the past year, above all, this has been year of extraordinary teamwork and passion. In addition to the GPRA Board and staff, this dedication has been shown throughout our membership networks, including our GP Ambassadors, the GPSN Executive and Ambassadors, and the Registrar Liaison Officer (RLO) network.

This teamwork has underpinned our growth and continues to be the competitive advantage that we take with us into what is already shaping up to be a fantastic year ahead.

Chief Executive Officer report

Bennie Ng

o

Wicky Wong — GPRA Chair Wicky is a GP registrar and is close to finishing his GP training. Wicky has previously worked in the investment sector, and brings valuable general management and corporate governance experience to the board. He is a graduate member of the Australian Institute of Company Directors.

Dr Belinda Guest — Past Chair A past GPRA Chair, Belinda remained on the board to share her knowledge of GPRA. She spent two years working in paediatrics before moving to general practice, where she has special interests in women’s and mental health.

Dr Bennie Ng Bennie is the Senior Manager for Service Planning and Development at Hong Kong Hospital Authority, with key responsibilities of formulating strategies for clinical services across all public hospitals. Prior to this, he was an advisor to the Federal Health Minister on Medicare, primary care and aged care policy development.

Dr Lana Prout Lana is a junior doctor based in Gippsland, Victoria. She graduated from Monash University in 2009 after completing her MBBS and Bachelor of Medical Science degrees. Lana aims to become a rural GP and has special interests in women’s health, medical education and palliative care.

Dr Mary Wyatt Mary is a junior doctor at Royal Perth Hospital. At medical school, she became the GPSN Ambassador for the University of Wollongong and was also the GPSN National Secretary. She has been involved with the Going Places Network during her internship and has been the student board member since 2009. Mary hopes to be a GP registrar in the coming years.

Dr Emily Farrell Emily has a clinical interest in women’s health and works at Family Planning QLD in Brisbane. She also has an interest in research and medical education. During 2011, she has been the Policy Director of GPRA, working with the GPRA subcommittees and RLOs to progress registrar issues.

Dr Piotr (Peter) Swierkowski Piotr is the Executive Director of Medical Services at the Sunshine Coast Health Service District. He is based at Nambour Hospital and provides professional leadership to over 450 senior and junior medical practitioners.

Dr Allison Turnock Allison is a GPT3 Registrar at Bellerive Quay Surgery, Tasmania. She is a passionate advocate for GP registrars and won GPET Registrar of the Year in 2010. Allison is also the Chair of the GPRA Registrar Medical Educators Subcommittee.

Amit Vohra — Chief Executive Officer

007

Organisational chart 2010–2011

Human resources update

CEOAmit Vohra

Policy Director

Emily Farrell

National Operations

ManagerMembership and

MarketingSarika Shah

National ManagerBusiness

DevelopmentMarie Treacy

National Manager

Organisational DevelopmentMargo Field

Manager:Going Places

NetworkEmily Fox

Manager:Membership Development

Renata Schindler

Manager:Communications and PublicationsLaura McGeoch

GPSN andFirst Wave

OfficerAlex de Vos

SeniorCommunications

AdviserRuth Hyland

Graphics Officer

Peter Fitzgerald

Administration Officer:

Membership DevelopmentAllisha Hiscock

Sponsorshipand Events

OfficerNaomi Sher

Evaluation, Research and

Reports OfficerShaun Rogers

(outgoing)

Senior Accounts Adviserand HR Officer

Rebecca Qi

Corporate Services Officer

Joshua Steele

State CoordinatorsWA; SA; VIC/TAS; QLD; NSW

Nicole Bonne — VIC/TASTracey Handley — QLDSusan Morrison — NSW

Louise Comey — SAWA — WAGPET

Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Amit Vohra In consultation with the GPRA Board the CEO sets the vision, strategy and values for GPRA. Amit has overall responsibility for operations, financing, marketing, strategy and human resources. The CEO creates company culture, and ensures compliance with ASIC and liaison with the board and the general practice sector.

National Manager: Organisational Development Margo Field Margo develops and implements the OD and HR strategies and participates in new business acquisition and development in collaboration with the Business Unit. She is also the nominated CEO in the absence of the CEO. The NM OD is a member of the Executive team (CEO and National Managers) thus providing overall management to GPRA.

National Operations Manager, Marketing and Membership: Sarika Shah Overall management of GPRA’s key operational areas: GPSN, First Wave Scholarships, Going Places Network, Registrars, Membership Development and Communications and Publications. Sarika leads a team of four including Manager: Going Places Network, Manager: Membership Development, and Manager: Communications and Publications. The NOM is a member of the Executive team, thus providing overall management to GPRA.

National Manager: Business Development Marie Treacy Marie’s focus is to manage and grow the business and partnership development portfolio of GPRA and ensure delivery of sponsorship agreements, including events. Marie works with key staff to productize existing services and activities of GPRA so that business engagement and opportunities are maximized.

The National Manager: Business Development is a member of the Executive team, thus providing overall management to GPRA.

Manager: Going Places Network Emily Fox This position is responsible for the national roll out of the Going Places Network program and involves overseeing a team of four Regional Project Coordinators and over 40 junior doctor GP Ambassadors across Australia. Emily is also responsible for managing the key stakeholder relationships associated with this program.

Manager: Membership Development Renata Schindler This position is responsible for the national roll out of GPRA’s initiatives for the registrar market, and for working with Registrar Liaison Officers and the GPRA Advisory Council. Renata is also responsible for membership development across GPRA’s membership categories and managing the GPSN and First Wave Project staff, and the GPRA Project Officer.

Manager: Communications and Publications Laura McGeoch Manage GPRA’s Communications and Publications and lead a team of four. This position is also responsible for implementing GPRA’s external communications, PR and media relations and stakeholder communications strategies. Laura also works with other team managers to contribute significantly to strategies and marketing, brand and communications initiatives across GPRA’s operations.

Senior Accounts Advisor and HR Officer Rebecca Qi Rebecca manages the accounts functions for GPRA, including receivables and payable, payroll and staff leave records. She is responsible for all governance requirements with the ATO and ASIC. Rebecca also assists with human resource functions.

Corporate Services Officer Josh Steele Josh is responsible for providing administrative support to the Executive team and board, including taking minutes, circulating correspondence and travel and accommodation management. Josh provides broad-based office support and is also the chief point of contact for contractors, and general reception duties, including phone, mail and courier management, purchasing stationery and supplies.

Evaluation, Research and Reports Officer Shaun Rogers (outgoing) The key objectives of this position are to assist GPRA with its policy by working with the GPRA Board and Advisory Council; undertake evaluation activities and reporting for the GP First Program and other activities within GPRA; undertake research functions as required and oversee the completion of the database rebuild and ensure ongoing integrity is maintained.

Sponsorship and Events Officer Naomi Sher This position is responsible for the implementation of promotional and marketing initiatives, including event and exhibition coordination and management; event promotion, organisational support; managing marketing collateral and communication and implementing and reporting on sponsorship agreements.

Senior Communications Adviser Ruth Hyland Provides broad communications, editorial and branding support to the organisation to ensure print and online content is up to date. Ruth oversees external web designers and developers working on GPRA online products, and investigates new ways to increase GPRA’s online presence and functionality.

Graphics Officer Peter Fitzgerald The key focus of this position is to be responsible for the design of a range of marketing materials that support GPRA’s operations, including, but not limited to, magazines, guides, posters, leaf-lets, flyers, packs and online materials. Peter is also developing the brand guidelines for GPRA, the GP Network and the GPSN.

GPSN and First Wave Officer Alex De Vos This position is responsible for assisting with the General Practice Students Network (GPSN) and the First Wave Scholarship Program. Alex also supports the GPSN National Executive and student clubs around Australia.

Administration Officer: Membership Development Allisha Hiscock Allisha provides administrative support to GPSN, First Wave and GPRA membership including database management.

Victoria/Tasmania Coordinator Going Places Nicole Bonne This role is responsible for working with GP Ambassadors to roll out the Going Places Network program within Victoria and Tasmania. Nicole also manages key stakeholders in Victoria and Tasmania that are associated with this program and also assists the Manager: Going Places Network with the national roll out of the program.

Queensland Coordinator Going Places Tracey Handley This role is responsible for working with GP Ambassadors to roll out the Going Places Network program within Queensland. Tracey also manages key stakeholders in Queensland that are associated with this program.

New South Wales Coordinator Going Places Susan Morrison This role is responsible for working with GP Ambassadors to roll out the Going Places Network program within New South Wales. Susan also manages key stakeholders in New South Wales that are associated with this program.

South Australian Coordinator Going Places Louise Comey This role is responsible for working with GP Ambassadors to roll out the Going Places Network program within South Australia. Nicole is also responsible for managing key stakeholders in South Australia in relation to this program.

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Postcards from GPland

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EXPLO

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General Practice Registrars Australia

In keeping with the ethos of being ‘run by registrars for registrars’, General Practice Registrars Australia (GPRA) has continued to expand its member offering over the past year.

One of the new benefits given to members this year was More than Money: A Negotiation Guide for GP registrars. The guide is a go-to reference for registrars who are in the process of, or about to start, negotiating their first employment contract.

The guide is being followed up with two online webinars and 120 members have already signed up for these sessions. More than Money was first published online in June 2011 and a printed hard copy will be given out to members in early 2012.

In the past year, GPRA has used webinars to connect with more of its members, and registrars’ responses to these sessions have been overwhelmingly positive. Webinars allow participants to ‘chat’ throughout the sessions, answer questions and give feedback.

The Surviving (and passing) the OSCE exam preparation webinars have been a huge success. Almost 200 registrars attended the two webinars held in September 2010, and another 175 members (plus a waiting list) attended the four webinars held in May 2011.

These webinars are now a permanent fixture on the GPRA registrar calendar and will be launched for registrars taking the 2011 exams. The success of the webinars has been attributed to the relevance of the sessions, which are set up and presented by registrars who have sat and passed the exam, and also the content, which covers hints and tips.

The epicentre of the GPRA registrar network continues to revolve around the Advisory Council. The Advisory Council is made up of all Registrar Liaison Officers (RLOs) across Australia and other registrars.

A new element of GPRA’s advocacy work is the creation of subcommittees, which stem from the Advisory Council. Subcommittees give registrars, who are not RLOs, the chance to formally contribute to policy and advocacy matters. They are made up of working parties of RLOs and other registrars, providing an excellent forum for discussion, support, and innovation. The subcommittees address registrar issues, concerns, and ideas with the aim of creating positive outcomes for registrars.

By June 2011, the six subcommittees that had been set up were: Registrar Medical Educator; RLO role; Practice Allocation; In-Practice Teaching; ACRRM registrars; and Safe Working Hours.

Work by the Registrar Medical Educator Subcommittee has been a particular highlight. It has developed and promoted the role of medical educators, and this work has led to the uptake of the registrar medical educators in regional training providers around Australia.

To help RLOs keep in touch with what is happening across the country and GPRA to respond more quickly to registrar issues, GPRA now holds four, rather than two, Advisory Council meetings each year. Two are face-to-face meetings and the remaining two are held via web conferencing.

The GPRA Assist phone line has remained an excellent way to provide one-on-one help for members. From July 2010 – June 2011, almost 200 calls were received. The most common questions were about the National Minimum Terms and Conditions, payments, and location restrictions.

In most cases, GPRA will alert the relevant RLO after receiving permission from the caller. It then works with the RLO to resolve the issues the caller may have raised.

Opportunities to meet face-to-face with registrars and stakeholders have also been maximised. The Breathing New Life into General Practice Conference, held in March

General Practice Registrars Australia (GPRA) is the peak national representative body for GP registrars.

GPRA provides essential feedback on registrar issues to its members and stakeholders, plays an important role in maintaining educational relevance and standards, and represents the future of general practice.

Through excellent education and training, and by promoting general practice as the specialty of choice, GPRA aims to improve the health-care of all Australians.

GPRA is a non-profit organisation and a designated health charity, making it the only charitable organisation in Australia dedicated to supporting general practice registrars.

As well as providing educational and professional resources for GP registrars, GPRA also performs the function of the industrial body for GP registrars and negotiates the ‘National Minimum Terms & Conditions for Basic and Advanced GP Terms’ with the National GP Supervisors Association (NGPSA), which govern the minimum conditions of employment for registrars.

2011, was an outstanding success. There was an excellent turnout of about 200 people from all stakeholder groups, funders, sponsors, industry leaders, as well as registrar, prevocational doctors and medical student delegates.

Looking aheadGPRA is planning to re-develop its website to make it even more focused for members, with blogs and forums that provide new ways for registrars to interact with each other.

More than Money will be expanded to include a sample contract, and negotiating tips from experts and GP supervisors.

The business-focused Future Series webinars will be held later in 2011, and will cover the business side of GP contractors, solo GPs, and GPs in partnerships.

3,573 GPRA members (registrars

and

recentlyqualifi

edGPs)

200 registrars atten

ded exam preparation

webinars in Septe

mber 2010

200phone calls rec

ieved and followed up

through the GPRA Assist

phone line acr

oss

Australia

175members signed up to e

xam

preparation webinars

held in May 2010

“The webinar was excellent. The suggested use of a stop watch during the OSCE (and of course during the study group preparation times) is excellent! Never thought of wearing one on the day...except for using a stop watch to the group during our study times!Thank you for hosting the Webinar, and for all your time - it was very informative indeed”– Participant in the OSCE Exam Preparation Webinar

insert GPRA web site page

More than Money

Secure your win-win contract

2011

A NEGOTIATION GUIDE FOR GP REGISTRARS

10 11

further two will be sponsored to attend the Prevocational Doctors Forum held in Auckland, NZ.

As well as one-to-one contact with the GP Network Manager, GP Ambassadors and RTPs, the network’s membership receives a range of supportive material. The Going Places magazine, published three times a year, now has a circulation of more than 6,000. It showcases the diverse possibilities that a general practice career offers, particularly from a personal point of view, through interviews with a range of GPs.

Going Places — the prevocational doctors guide to GP training was produced for the second time in January 2011 and nearly 3,000 copies were distributed. It helps junior doctors to make informed choices around their future career direction and received a positive response from prevocational doctors.

In May 2011, a re-vamped GP Australia website, which is an interactive resource for junior doctors, was launched. Its new features include videos and a book review section, as well as blogs and forums that members can use to discuss topical issues with each other. It also delivers practical information, such as training pathways, news and events. Some of the popular features of the website include the Earnings Calculator, the ‘Confessions of a Junior Doctor’ blog, and the ‘Meet real-life GPs’ section.

Looking ahead Next year, the Going Places Network will recruit a new group of passionate GP Ambassadors to promote the general practice specialty to their peers. They will replace those ambassadors who are heading into a practice as a registrar.

The Going Places Network is striving for another year of impressive growth by continuing to work with stakeholders to run educational and networking events across the country, and by remaining a relevant resource for junior doctors.

Going Places Network

• Join GP Ambassador Estera Bratko, registrars, RTPs and

GPs for a fun evening of antipasto, drinks and information

• Discover what it is like to train in general practice

• Dispel those myths and misconceptions about general

practice with our myth busting quiz

WHEN: Friday 16 September

WHERE: Doctors Common Room, Roof Top Terrace

Royal Brisbane & Women’s Hospital

TIME: 5.30pm for a 6pm start til 8pm

General practice – uncovered

E V E N T

1 6 S E P T E M B E R 2011

Dispel the myths and queries you

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RSVP to tracey.handley@gpra.org.au by 13 September 2011

with name, hospital and mobile.GPRA12081150

gpaustralia.org.au/goingplaces

“This might sound cliché, but I love the Going Places guide. I think that it covers all of the pertinent topics on junior doctors’ minds regarding general practice (and more very interesting and helpful stuff on top of that)! I honestly think that it is such a fantastic resource and I am always so proud handing them out because I have so much trust in the people behind the publication and have consistently been so impressed by its quality and content!” – Melanie Winter, Eastern Health GP Ambassador.

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1,200 G

oing P

laces

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rk mem

bers

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ease i

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lyear

47hospita

l-base

d GP

Ambas

sadors

acros

s

A

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ia

250junior doctors who attended Going Places Network events

Based on the successful peer-to-peer strategy used by the General Practice Students Network (GPSN), the Going Places Network promotes general practice as a specialty to interns and junior doctors.

The network, which is free to join, recruits hospital-based junior doctors, called ‘GP Ambassadors’, who help develop and run social, networking and educational events across a selection of teaching hospitals.

With the help of GP Ambassadors, the network provides a friendly and supportive local community of junior doctors with a passion and enthusiasm for general practice.

Going Places Network is administered by General Practice Registrars Australia (GPRA) and, along with the GPSN, is supported by a funding grant from General Practice Education and Training (GPET).

Now into its second year, the Going Places Network has gained momentum and a strong presence within hospitals across Australia and in the junior doctor space.

The number of people joining the network since 30 June 2010 has grown by 50 per cent, with the network’s membership now at around 1,200. The focus for the coming year is to continue to expand the network, while providing targeted support and information to junior doctors as they consider their next steps towards general practice.

There are now 47 GP Ambassadors networking within 43 teaching hospitals throughout Australia. These ambassadors, along with help of Regional Training Providers (RTPs), have made great strides to boost the Going Places Network profile.

In the past year, ambassadors have held 55 promotional events in hospitals with other prevocational doctors. These events form the core peer-to-peer marketing model. As well as hosting a range of promotional events in the hospitals, the Going Places Network has also run 10 Going Places events outside the hospital environment. These events feature experienced GPs as guest speakers, and may focus on a particular medical topic that GPs can specialise in. All events are free and are excellent networking opportunities for doctors.

To help ambassadors to keep in touch with the general practice industry, the Going Places Network has sponsored five ambassadors to attend the GPET Convention later in 2011, while a

12 13

General Practice Students Network

General Practice Students Network (GPSN) is run by students for students and has members in every medical school in Australia. It promotes general practice to students through networking events, career-focused workshops and clinical sessions.

The network was the first GPRA program to use the peer-to-peer marketing model. It successfully implemented this model by appointing ‘ambassadors’ in 20 universities within the network, and each university has its own GPSN club. The ambassadors work with the GPSN team to network with fellow medical students and promote general practice to them.

As well as students, GPSN works closely with Regional Training Providers and other medical associations, including the Australian Medical Students’ Association and the National Rural Health Students’ Network.

GPSN is administered by General Practice Registrars Australia (GPRA) and, along with the Going Places Network, is supported by a funding grant from General Practice Education and Training (GPET).

Each year, GPSN produces the Aspire guide. The guide introduces students to the network and gives them an insight into general practice. Aspire features interviews with GPs and First Wave Scholarship recipients, and includes GPSN ambassador and national executive profiles.

More than 5,700 copies of the Aspire guide were distributed to students at universities and conferences throughout Australia.

Looking aheadThe GPSN team has a long-term goal of signing up 10,000 members by 2013. The focus will remain on attracting quality members — students who have a real interest in general practice and will potentially undertake the training program in the future.

It is also improving the way it keeps in touch with members. A new GPSN website, which features more opportunities for students to network with each other through blogs and forums, is under development. The team is also re-designing the monthly e-newsletter to align it with the new website.

The General Practice Students Network’s (GPSN’s) membership has continued to grow since it was established in 2007. By 30 June 2011, membership had reached 6,450, an increase of 1,290 members from the previous year.

The network has boosted its membership through supporting student-led events, hosting its own events, running membership sign-up drives and having a presence at key student conferences.

Student ambassadors kicked off the academic year by hosting 33 events between January and July 2011. Events were hosted in medical schools across Australia, with 17 of the 20 clubs running an event.

As well as providing opportunities for students to network with each other, the events provide important information for students considering a general practice career. For example, there were four events for the First Wave Scholarship Program, three career-focused events, six clinical events and an annual general meeting.

A range of support material was produced for these events, such as sign-up forms, information kits — and even frisbees!

GPSN has extended its reach by attending key student conferences. It featured at the Global Health Conference and the Australian Medical Students’ Association convention in Sydney, and used these opportunities to sign up 200 new members and get in touch with more than 1,000 medical students.

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First Wave Companion

Academic Year 2011-2012

Student Guidelines & Clinical Session Logs

GPSN FirSt Wave SCholarShiP ProGram

First Wave Scholarship Program The First Wave Scholarship Program gives medical students in their first, second, third or fourth year a chance to experience general practice under the guidance of a dedicated GP supervisor. GPRA has managed the program since its pilot in 2008 and the program is supported by a funding grant from GPET.

A total of 73 medical students from 16 universi-ties across Australia completed the program during the 2010–2011 academic year. Overall, the Australia-wide average was 4.7 scholarship recipients per university.

Following their scholarship placement, 68 students provided feedback via an online survey. This was an excellent response rate of 93 per cent.

The overwhelming majority of students indicated that the 2010–2011First Wave Scholarship Program improved their understanding of the important role general practice plays in the long-term care of patients, and within the broader healthcare system.

Top responses…

• 89 per cent of students rated the First Wave Scholarship Program as either extremely useful (47%) or very useful (42%) in helping them with their future career choice.

• 85 per cent of students said they were more likely to consider general practice as a career after completing the program.

• 83 per cent said they are extremely likely to recommend the program to other medical students. A further 15 per cent said they are very likely to recommend it.

Building on the success of this year, the 2011–2012 First Wave Scholarship Program was shaping up to be equally successful, with 232 students already submitting an application by 30 June 2011.

ProgramInformation

Academic Year 2011-2012Information for Students and Educators

GPSN FIrSt Wave ScholarShIP ProGram

Confessions of a 21st Century Medical Student

Sponsored banner

Sponsored banner

Our Sponsors

GPRA unites different practices, wherever they are located.Katerine. Bendigo Hospital GP Ambassador, 23 September 2011

We’re gradually getting used to being upstaged by young people involved in our International Inspiration and Get Set programmes. Every time we share a stage with them or invite them to participate in a conference, workshop or meeting, they come out with the most powerful statement or that make the crowd laugh, smile or cry (on occasion). For us, this is positive – their contributions only reiterate the impact that they think these programmes are having on their lives.

We’re gradually getting used to being upstaged by young people involved in our International Inspiration and Get Set programmes. Every time we share a stage with them or invite them to participate in a conference, workshop or meeting, they come out with the most powerful statement or that make the crowd laugh, smile or cry (on occasion). For us, this is positive – their contributions only reiterate the impact that they think these programmes are having on their lives.

It was no different last week when gradually getting used to being upstaged by young people involved in our International Inspiration and Get Set programmes. Every time we share a stage with them or invite them to participate in a conference, workshop or meeting, they come out with the most powerful statement or that make the crowd laugh, smile or cry (on occasion). For us, this is positive – their contributions only reiterate the impact that they think these programmes are having on their lives.It was no different last week when gradually getting used to being upstaged by young people involved in our International Inspiration and

Board Meetings Audit & Finance Remuneration & Committee Nominations Committee

Number of 8 4 3 meetings held

Attended Eligible to Attended Eligible to Attended Eligible to Attend Attend Attend

Belinda Guest 8 8 3 3 (Previous Chair)

Jennifer Mooi 5 5 3 3 (outgoing member)

Bennie Ng 7 8 3 4

Abhi Varshney 2 3

(outgoing member)

Danika Fietz 3 3 2 2 (outgoing member)

George Forgan-Smith 2 2 (outgoing member)

Lana Prout 7 8 2 3

Mary Wyatt 7 8 3 3

Wicky Wong 7 8 4 4

Emily Farrell 5 5 2 2

Allison Turnock 3 3

Piotr Swierkowski 3 3 2 2

14 15

Corporate governance report Nominations and Remunerations Committee report

Performance appraisal A template was developed for the performance of the CEO and directors. Performance reviews for individual directors were conducted by the chair. The CEO was evaluated using a standardised template and feedback was given by staff and directors, followed by a formal performance appraisal with the chair. The committee also reviewed the CEO’s remuneration following the formal appraisal. New key performance indicators were set for the next financial year.

Policy DirectorThe board has recognised the need for a GPRA Policy Director who can ensure that issues raised at the Advisory Council are brought to the board, as well as helping to write policy supporting registrars. The committee has created position descriptions for, and has discussed the remuneration of this new role.

Dr Mary-Therese Wyatt Chair Nominations and Remunerations Committee

The Nominations and Remunerations Committee is an internal committee within the GPRA Board. The committee’s purpose is to provide recommendations to the board on matters surrounding the nomination and remuneration of the directors and the chief executive officer (CEO).

Some of the key areas the committee has focused on in the last 12 months include:

Succession planning for the GPRA BoardThe committee continues to monitor succession planning for the board. In the past 12 months, two directors have stepped down after many years of service. Dr George Forgan-Smith and Dr Jennifer Mooi were invaluable contributors in the areas of policy and governance. The committee conducted interviews to fill these vacancies and appointed Dr Allison Turnock and Dr Piotr (Peter) Swierkowski as replacement members. Dr Turnock and Dr Swierkowski will be presented for voting in by the members at the AGM.

Co-option policyThe committee has recognised that the board may need to co-opt directors to acquire certain business skills. For this to be a robust process, the committee has developed a co-option policy and a skills audit, which is conducted annually by board members to identify areas of skill deficit.

The following hierarchical chart illustrates the relationship between the Corporate Governance Charter and other key planning levels within GPRA. Moving forward, the board has launched a full review of the charter to

A strong focus on corporate governance has been a core part of the GPRA Board’s strategy in the last 12 months.

The board has created and implemented a whole raft of new policies to ensure that governance, compliance and risk-related issues match the organisation’s growth. There has been strong focus on maximising efficiency of board meetings and creating new policy documents that devolve authority to management within a clearly articulated framework. Key areas, such as delegation of authority, succession planning, and management performance indicators, have been revisited and aligned to ensure best practice governance.

GPRA’s Corporate Governance Charter is the foundation for the organisation’s corporate planning process. It clearly defines the roles, responsibilities and authorities of the Board of Directors, both individually and collectively. It provides an essential outline of the roles of the ultimate decision-makers in the organisation and details the decision-making process. The charter also outlines the expectations of the board about critical policies, such as risk management and the delegation of responsibility.

In particular, this charter :

• assists the company’s leadership to deliver good governance

• acts as a point of reference

• acts as an induction tool for new directors and managers

• creates a structure to deal with any difficult issues, such as non-performance

• ensures that areas, such as succession planning, formal performance reviews etc, are defined and followed up

• acts as a starting point for strategic planning.

Corporate GovernanceCharter TM

Defining governance

roles

Boardprocesses

Continuingimprovement

Key board functions

Role of the boardBoard structure

Role of individual DirectorsRole of Chairman

Role of Company Secretary

Board meetingsBoard meeting agendaBoard papersBoard minutes The Board Calendar Committees

Strategy formulationService/advice/contactsMonitoringComplianceRisk managementCEO evaluationDelegation ofauthority

Director protectionBoard evaluationDirector remuneration Director development Director selection and induction

ensure that this document remains a robust governance tool that can guide it in delivering the new three-year strategic plan. The diagram (centre) provides an overview of the contents of the Corporate Governance Charter document.

With the institution of the Corporate Governance Charter, GPRA has created specific committees on the board to look at different

aspects of corporate governance, including audit, finance, succession planning,

director and senior management evaluation and remuneration, risk management and strategic planning.

The number of meetings of directors (including meetings of committees of directors) held during the year and the number of meetings attended by each director are shown on the table below.

16 17

Directors’ declaration Finance report

In the 2010–2011 financial year, GPRA successfully negotiated a new core funding contract with the Department of Health and Ageing (DoHA) to support GP registrars during their training by offering targeted services. The new contract started on 1 July 2011. In line with the organisation’s vision, GPRA has identified numerous projects aimed at promoting general practice as a specialty of choice that have attracted specific project-based funding.

The year in reviewGPRA continues to grow as an organisation and the 2010-2011 fiscal year saw a 55 per cent expansion of its previous budget. The growth was largely linked to the start of the new GP First program accompanied by a modest increase in sponsorship revenue. GPRA remains in a very positive position with minimal liabilities and a strong net asset base. This will allow for critical expansion of staff required to deliver the new projects.

FY 2010–2011 FY 2009–2010 FY 2008–2009 FY 2007–2008

Total Income $2,955,007 $1,851,678 $1,181,251 $933,401

Total Expense $2,702,516 $1,834,793 $1,095,257 $848,446

Operating Profit $252,491 $16,885 $85,993 $84,955

As at 30/6/11 As at 30/6/10 As at 30/6/09 As at 30/6/08

Current Assets $766,855 $515,026 $609,110 $433,828

Non-Current Assets $ $ $ $4,311

Total Assets $766,855 $515,026 $609,110 $438,140

Current Liabilities $129,948 $130,094 $179,392 $91,923

Retained Earnings $384,416 $368,046 $343,724 $261,261

Net Assets $636,907 $384,932.43 $429,717 $346,217

The comparison with previous years indicates that GPRA has steadily increased its revenue in the last few years which is indicative of new projects that GPRA is currently delivering. The strong growth is underpinned by a healthy asset base which puts the organisation in a strong financial position.

In the opinion of the directors of General Practice Registrars Australia Ltd (GPRA).

This statement has been made in accordance with a resolution of the directors.

a) the financial statements and the notes thereto are in accordance with the Corporations Act 2001 and comply with accounting standards,

b) the financial statements, and the notes thereto give a true and fair view of the company’s financial position as at 30 June 2011, and of the performance of the company for the year ended 30 June 2011, and

c) in the opionion of the directors, at the date of this declaration, there are reasonable grounds to believe that the company will be able to pay its debts as and when they become due and payable.

This statement has been made in accordance with a resolution of the directors.

Dr Wicky Wong GPRA Chair

19

Independant auditor’s report

were accurately reflected in the financial reports. These and our other procedures did not include consideration or judgement of the appropriateness or reasonableness of the business plans or strategies adopted by the members and management of the organisation.

Independence I am independent of General Practice Registrars Australia Ltd and have met the independence requirements of the applicable Australian Professional Ethical Pronouncements and the Corporations Act 2001.

The audit opinion expressed in this independent audit report has been formed on the above basis.

Audit opinion In my opinion, the financial reports:

a) give a true and fair view of the organisation’s financial position as at 30 June 2011 and of it’s performance for the period 1 July 2010 to 30 June 2011, which includes it’s cash flow for the respective period,

b) comply with Australian Accounting Concepts and applicable Accounting Standards

c) are in accordance with the Corporations Act 2001 and other mandatory professional reporting requirements.

Auditor Toni Livich NIA (124279) Lyra Livich & Associates 17 August 2011

audit is influenced by factors such as the use of professional judgement, selective testing, the inherent limitations of internal control and the availability of persuasive rather than conclusive evidence. Therefore an audit cannot guarantee that all misstatements have been detected.

I performed procedures to assess whether in all material respects the financial reports represent fairly, in compliance with Accounting Standards in Australia and other mandatory financial reporting requirements in Australia, a view which is consistent with my understanding of the organisation’s financial position and of it’s performance which is represented by the results of it’s operations.

I formed my opinion on the basis of these procedures, which included:

• examining on a test basis, information to provide evidence, supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial reports,

• assessing the appropriateness of the accounting policies and disclosures used and the reasonableness of significant accounting estimates made by the members.

Whilst I considered the effectiveness of managements internal controls over financial reporting when determining the nature and extent of my procedures, my audit was not designed to provide assurance on internal controls. I performed procedures to assess whether the substance of business transactions

To: the members of General Practice Registrars Australia Ltd

Financial Reports and Members’ ResponsibilityI have audited the financial reports of General Practice Registrars Australia Ltd for the financial year ending 30 June 2011. The members are responsible for preparing and maintaining adequate accounting records and internal controls that are designed to prevent fraud and error and for the accounting policies and accounting estimates inherent in the financial reports.

The members have determined that the organisation is a non-reporting entity and that the financial reports are special purpose financial reports, which do not require the application of all accounting standards in Australia or other particular financial reporting requirements. The members have determined that the accounting policies used are consistent with the organisation’s financial reporting requirements and are appropriate to meet the needs of the users of this report.

Audit approachI conducted an independent audit of the completed financial reports in order to express an opinion to the members. My audit was conducted in accordance with the Australian Auditing Standards to provide reasonable as-surance as to whether the financial reports are free of material misstatement. The nature of an

Statement of Cash Flow

July 2010 through June 2011 July 2009 through June 2010

Cash flow from operating activities

Net income1 $252,490.77 $16,885.60

Trade debtors ($317,211.30) ($18,579.83)

AMEX corporate $8,283.50 ($1,364.81)

AMEX old chair $107.03 ($527.66)

AMEX chair $1,408.94 $-

Trade creditors ($20,125.11) $19,625.11

GST collected $18,342.76 $33,525.51

GST paid ($30,836.33) ($8,697.24)

Payroll accruals payable ($8,008.53) $16,815.58

PAYG withholding payable ($1,147.58) $11,875.32

Provision for holiday leave ($2,128.73) $32,488.30

Provision for long service leave $11,700.00 $-

Payroll tax payable $21,741.68 $-

Retained earnings $- ($61,670.17)

Net cash flows from operating activities ($65,382.90) $40,375.21

Cash flow from investing activities

Net cash flows from investing activities $- $-

Cash flow from financing activities

Net cash flows from financing activities $- $-

Net increase/decrease for the period ($65,382.90) $40,375.71

Cash at the beginning of the period $435,035.05 $394,659.06

Cash at the end of the period $369,652.15 $435,035.05

b. $50,000 of the income received under the ‘Donations and research’ category has been invoiced in this year but is pre-committed to work to be undertaken next year.

c. $60,000 of monies received under the sponsorship portfolio are pre-paid sponsorships for next financial year.

Statement of Cash Flow1. It should be noted that the net income figure is inflated due to the following reasons:

a. $136,000 core funding invoice was raised in this financial year but is pre-committed to next year’s budget.

18

20 21

Balance Sheet

As of June 2011 As of June 2010

Assets

Current assests

Cash on hand

Grant account $177,183.65 $70,629.34

Sponsors account $135,426.34 $311,727.42

Portfolio account $17,876.49 $13,059.03

Members account $9,105.24 $11,113.20

GPSN EMerchant accounts $30,060.63 $28,505.78

Trade debtors $397,203.30 $79,992.00

Total current assests $766,855.45 $515,026.77

Total assets $766,855.45 $515,026.77

Liabilities

Current liabilities

Credit cards

AMEX corporate $8,072.92 ($210.58)

AMEX old chair ($420.63) ($527.66)

AMEX chair $1,408.94 $-

Total credit cards $9,061.23 ($738.24)

Trade creditors $0.00 $19,625.11

GST liabilities

GST collected $87,078.27 $68,735.51

GST paid ($56,697.16) ($25,877.24)

Total GST liabilities $30,381.11 $42,858.27

Payroll liabilities

Payroll accruals payable $8,807.05 $16,815.58

PAYG withholding payable $17,898.02 $19,045.32

Provision for holiday leave $30,359.57 $32,488.30

Provision for long service leave1 $11,700.00 $-

Payroll tax payable2 $21,741.68 $-

Total payroll liabilities $90,506.32 $68,349.20

Total current liabilities $129,948.66 $130,094.34

Total liabilities $129,948.66 $130,094.34

Net assets $636,906.79 $384,932.43

Equity

Retained earnings $384,416.02 $368,046.83

Current year earnings $252,490.77 $16,885.60

Total equity $636,906.79 $384,932.43

Profit and Loss Statement

As of June 2011 As of June 2010

Income1

GPRA core funding2 $454,545.47 $318,181.83

GP first core funding2 $1,899,996.00 $-

GPSN core funding2 $- $510,000.00

Going Places core funding $- $492,300.00

Sponsorship, Advert & Event Inc $484,723.87 $490,915.34

Donations & research $80,000.00 $25,000.00

Reimbursements $5,377.91 $-

Interest earned $30,364.50 $9,281.67

Special projects $- $6,000.00

Total income $2,955,007.75 $1,851,678.84

Cost of sales

Gross profit $2,955,007.75 $1,851,678.84

Expenses

GPRA expenses $269,277.02 $223,889.95

GP First general expenses2 $391,673.42 $-

GP First operational expenses2 $935,824.71 $-

GPSN expenses 2 $- $521,989.07

Going Places expenses 2 $- $283,407.40

Board expenses 3 $51,561.18 $27,717.65

Remuneration expenses 4 $1,050,947.84 $767,698.58

Special projects $3,232.81 $10,090.59

Total expenses $2,702,516.98 $1,834,793.24

Operating profit $252,490.77 $16,885.60

Other income

Other expenses

Net profit / (loss) 5 $252,490.77 $16,885.60

Balance Sheet1. A new liability for long service leave (LSL) has been introduced this year as we have staff becoming eligible for LSL for the first time in the next financial year.

2. GPRA was marginally over the payroll tax threshold in previous years and did not warrant the creation of a liability. Given substantial increase in staff costs, the payroll liability has now been introduced.

Profit and Loss Statement1. Core funding for 2010–2011 is unchanged from the previous year. GPRA has signed a new contract with DoHA for the 2011–2012 financial year. Due to the timing of signing the contract, the invoice was raised in the current financial year.

2. The GPSN and Going Places programs are now a part of the GP First contract with GPET and have been combined into a new contract with GPET tilted ‘GP First’. The value of this new contract is greater than the previous year. Income and expenses related to these pro-grams have been amalgamated into that of GP First in the 2010–11 financial year.

3. Board expenses have increased due to corporate governance training for directors and increased face to face meetings and travel costs to ensure the board can meet its governance obligations.

4. There is a significant increase in human resource costs in relation to the new GP First contract where GPRA now employs state-based staff in QLD, NSW, SA and VIC in addition to an expansion of the national team to meet increased contractual obligations under the GP First contract.

5. It should be noted that the operating profit is inflated due to the following reasons:

a. $136,000 core funding invoice was raised in this financial year but is pre-committed to next year’s budget.

b. $50,000 of the income received under the ‘Donations and research’ category has been invoiced in this year, but is pre-committed to work to be undertaken next year.

c. $60,000 of monies received under the sponsorship portfolio are pre-paid sponsorships for next financial year.

2223

Notes to the financial statements

General notes to the financial statements

For the year ended 30 June 2011.

Overview

GPRA is a not-for-profit organisation with all funds directed towards the achievement of our objectives as laid out in the company’s constitution.

Significant changes in state of affairs

There were no significant changes in the state of affairs of the company that occurred during the financial year that are not otherwise disclosed in this report or in the financial statements.

Performance in relation to environmental regulation

There was no environmental legislation applicable to the operations of the company that has not been complied with.

Likely developments and future results

The company anticipates that it will maintain a positive financial position in 2010/2011. The GP First Contract and the renewal of the DoHA core-funding contract ensure financial security for the company into the future. GPRA is

continually updating, reviewing and improving its management and governance practices to ensure that the objectives of the company are met. With the inclusion of new projects there is significant scope for growth in the next financial year.

Dividends

The company is a not-for-profit organisation limited by guarantee and its constitution precludes the payment of dividends.

Events subsequent to balance date

No circumstances have arisen since the end of the year which have significantly affected or may significantly affect the operations, the results of those operations or the state of affairs of the company in future financial years.

Principle activities

The principle activities of GPRA throughout the year were aimed at supporting its members and promoting high standards of care in general practice for the benefit of the community. This was done through promoting general practice across all continuums in line with the company’s constitution. Specifically, the GP First program, which includes the General Practice Students Network, the Going Places Network and the First Wave Scholarship Program, is directly aimed at promoting general practice as a preferred career choice to medical students and prevocational doctors. A copy of the constitution is available from our website gpra.org.au

Indemnification of directors and officers

During the financial year, the company paid a premium in respect of a contract insuring the directors of the company; the company secretary and all executive officers of the company and any related body corporate against a liability incurred as such a director, secretary or executive officer to the extent permitted by the Corporations Act 2001. The contract of insurance prohibits the disclosure of the nature of the liability and the amount of the premium.

Proceedings on behalf of the company

No person has applied to the Court under section 237 of the Corporation’s Act 2001 for leave to bring proceedings on behalf of the company, or to intervene in any proceedings to which the company is a party, for the purpose of taking responsibility on behalf of the company for all or part of those proceedings. No proceedings have been brought or intervened in on behalf of the company with leave of the Court under section 237 of the Corporations Act 2001.

Summary of significant accounting policies

General Practice Registrars Australia Ltd. (GPRA) is a public company limited by guarantee and incorporated under the Corporation’s Act 2001. No shares have been issued. The limit of liability of each individual member is limited to $10. The Company is a not-for-profit charitable organisation. The objects for which the company is established are:

1. Promoting the prevention or the control of diseases in human beings;

2. Improving the healthcare of all Australians through excellence in education such as conducting workshops to promote professional development;

3. Promoting the profession of general practice in Australia;

4. Recognising and supporting the needs of general practice registrars in Australia; and

5. To do all such other things as are incidental or conducive to the attainment of the above objectives.

Income tax

GPRA is endorsed as a Health Promotion Charity, and accesses the following tax concessions:

Tax concession From

GST concession 01 Jul 2005

FBT exemption 01 Jul 2005

Income Tax exemption 23 Feb 2004

Deductible gift recipient: 01 Jul 2005.

Statement of compliance

The finance report is a general-purpose financial report that has been prepared in accordance with the Corporation’s Act 2001 and Australian Accounting Standards. Australian Accounting Standards require a statement of compliance with International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRSs) to be made where the financial report complies with these standards. Some Australian equivalents to IFRSs and other Australian Accounting Standards contain requirements specific to not-for-profit entities that are inconsistent with IFRS requirements. GPRA is not-for-profit and has applied these requirements, so while this financial report complies with Australian Accounting Standards, including Australian Equivalents to International Financial Reporting Standards (AEIFRSs), it cannot make this statement.

Basis of preparation

The financial report has been prepared on the basis of historical cost. GPRA does not have any significant fixed assets to impact on the accounting reports. The accounting policies set out below have been applied in preparing the financial statements for the year ended 30 June 2011.

Significant accounting judgements, estimates and assumptions

The directors evaluate estimates and judgements included in the financial report based on the best available historic and current information. Estimates and accounting assumptions assume a reasonable understanding of future events based on current trends and economic data. There have been no significant judgements, estimates or assumptions applied in the preparation of these financial statements except where otherwise stated.

Changes in accounting policies

The accounting policies adopted in the preparation of this report are consistent with the previous year except where otherwise stated. A specific restructure of certain projects has been included in compliance with contractual arrangements in relation to the delivery of these projects. As such, income and expenses related to these projects is now recorded separately in our accounts. Notes to this effect are included in the financial statements.

Goods and services tax

Revenues from ordinary activities, expenses from ordinary activities and assets are recognised net of the amount of Goods and Services Tax (GST), except where the amount of GST incurred is not recoverable from the Australian Taxation Office (ATO). In these circumstances the GST is recognised as part of the cost of acquisition of the asset or part of the item of the expenses from ordinary activities.

Basis of preparation of the financial statements

The statements have been prepared using the accruals basis for accounting.

1.1 Current assets

1.1.1 Cash on hand

Cash and cash equivalents comprise cash at bank and in hand, stated at nominal value. Individual expense cards for student clubs “represent unspent cash available to individual clubs and have been included under current assets.

1.1.2 Accounts receivable and withholding credits

Accounts receivables are recognised and carried at original invoice. No allowance has been made for doubtful debts since at the time of preparation of this report there was no reason to doubt successful recovery of these funds. Net amount of GST recoverable is included under withholding credits.

24 25

1.2 Impairment of assets

Assets are mainly cash or cash equivalents and are not liable for impairment.

1.3 Depreciation

Depreciation is calculated on a straight-line basis so as to write off the net cost of each item of property, plant and equipment over its expected useful life. Computer equipment and furniture has already been depreciated and is no longer recognised as an asset.

1.4 Fixed assets

GPRA does not own any fixed assets in relation to land and buildings. Fixed assets typically comprise of office equipment, computers and furniture. Depreciation is provided on a straight-line basis. Any accumulated depreciation at the date of revaluation is eliminated against the gross carrying amount of the asset and the net amount is restated to the remaining value of the asset. These items have already been depreciated to zero and hence do not appear on the statement.

1.5 Non-current assets

GPRA does not recognise any good will or any other forms of intangibles in the organisation’s accounting policies.

1.6 Current and non-current liabilities

Current liabilities represent trade creditors, superannuation payments and GST collected. GPRA does not have any borrowings or any other non-current liabilities.

1.7 Income and profit

The income includes revenue generated from operating activities, including sponsorship and advertising and specific project funding received from the Department of Health and Ageing (DoHA) and General Practice Education and Training (GPET). Cash flows from operating activities capture all types of income including special project funding.

1.8 Expenses

Expenses have been split based on contractual requirements and funding received for various programs.

1.9 Leases

Operating lease payments are expensed in the income statement as incurred.

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