Modernising Referral Pathways

Closes 6 Mar 2026

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General Consultation Questions

Questions are categorised as either multiple choice or short form answer.

For multiple choice questions: on a scale of 1-5, where 1 means you strongly disagree and 5 means you strongly agree, how much do you agree with the below statements?

Definition of Terms - Specialists, Consultant Physicians and General Practitioners

Please note there is no distinction between specialists and consultant physicians in relation to referral arrangements. As such, for the purposes of this Consultation Paper, specialist general practitioners are referred to as GPs, while “non-GP specialists” refers to both specialists and consultant physicians unless otherwise indicated.

1. The current referral process makes it easy for patients to access specialist care.
2. Common referral validity periods (12 months for GP referrals, 3 months for specialist-to-specialist referrals) meet health needs.
3. Longer or indefinite referral validity periods would improve patient experience and reduce unnecessary costs.
4. Patients should always receive a copy of their referral.
5. Including cost information and links to Medical Costs Finder on referrals would help patients make more informed financial decisions.
6. Patients should be able to switch specialists under the same referral without needing a new referral.
7. What risks or challenges do you foresee with making referrals longer or indefinite by default?
8. The treating non-GP specialist should be required to inform the referring doctor of a patient’s treatment progress throughout the duration of the referral.
9. For GP to non-GP specialist referrals, which validity period do you think would be most appropriate?
10. For non-GP specialist to non-GP specialist referrals, which validity period do you think would be most appropriate?
11. What do you foresee slowing or stopping the take up of a future Australia wide digital referral process?
12. Are there any other issues related to referrals that have not been captured in this consultation paper?
13. Are there any alternative policy options that you would recommend that have not been discussed in this consultation paper?
14. Which of the following descriptions best suits you?