Distribution Priority Area (for General Practitioners)

The Distribution Priority Area (DPA) classification system for GPs is an impartial mechanism used by the Government to encourage a more equitable distribution of GPs who are restricted under s19AB of the Health Insurance Act 1973, including International Medical Graduates (IMGs) and Foreign Graduates of Accredited Medical Schools (FGAMS). \r\n•\tThe DPA classification system is also used to distribute Australian-trained Bonded doctors who have a return of service obligation.\r\n•\tThe Distribution Priority Area (DPA) replaced the Districts of Workforce Shortage (DWS) system for GPs in 2019. DWS remains in use for non-GP specialists.\r\n•\tDPA considers the demographics of a region, including age, gender and socio-economic groupings, along with MBS activity data, to determine a benchmark figure that reflects community need for GP service. \r\n•\tDPA is calculated for 827 distinct, non-overlapping GP catchments throughout Australia. Catchments assessed below the benchmark are classified DPA.\r\n•\tAreas classified MM 2-7 under the Modified Monash Model (MMM) geographical remoteness classification system are automatically DPA. Inner metropolitan locations are automatically non-DPA.\r\nThe attached file for the DPA as at November 2023 (most recent annual update). As the files may be updated at short notice for program purposes, please ensure you use the Health Workforce Locator for the most up-to-date and official DPA location status.