Australian medical policy on AI and telehealth

In July 2026, the Australian Medical Association released its first major revision of the doctor’s role position statement since 2011, adding explicit guidance on the scope of practice, clinical governance, patient costs and the use of artificial intelligence (AI). The updated policy stressed that AI can assist but must not replace clinical judgment, requiring clear oversight, transparent limits and escalation procedures to combat the rise of AI‑generated health misinformation.

A week later, the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners and the AMA jointly urged the government to extend telehealth flexibilities amid a potential fuel‑shortage emergency and warned that a forthcoming health‑incentive bill could introduce AI‑driven compliance checks resembling the controversial “Robodebt” system. They called for stronger human oversight, inflation‑linked payment adjustments and an expert advisory group to ensure AI tools do not undermine transparency or place financial strain on practices.