AMA SA CEO Nicole Sykes, AMA President Dr Danielle McMullen & AMA SA President Dr John Williams
Recently I stumbled across the very first President’s Report I penned for medicSA. It was the Spring 2023 edition of the magazine, I’d been AMA SA President for just four short months, and I was reflecting on the theme of ‘change’.
At the time, it seemed change was everywhere. South Australia’s healthcare system was still emerging from the worst of the COVID-19 pandemic. Simultaneously, medical practitioners were confronting the prospect of the payroll tax, and the stress and confusion that came with it.
Our organisation was going through major transitions, too. AMA SA was embarking on a new era of governance and transparency under a new CEO. As the new President, I was becoming accustomed to the seismic changes in my professional life, which suddenly encompassed high-level meetings with ministers and health decision-makers, frequent media appearances, ongoing dialogue with members, Zoom calls with AMA leadership, and the near-weekly trips back and forth from Port Lincoln.
Change has been a constant throughout my two years as President. Not all of it has been positive, but I’m proud of how AMA SA has responded to the challenges and the progress we’ve made together.
As AMA SA’s first President based in a regional area, having the opportunity to shine a spotlight on
DR JOHN WILLIAMS
President and Chair
regional healthcare has been one of the biggest rewards. Helping to secure a new pay deal for rural GPs and GP registrars in late 2023 stands out as a significant achievement. My rural tour of the state in the years since has given me a deeper understanding of the pressures and barriers my regional colleagues face. What I heard on my travels empowered my advocacy.
Ensuring South Australia has enough doctors working in the right places has also been a focus of my presidency. I’ve been a staunch advocate of general practice and have supported the Federal AMA’s calls for more GP training places and fair salaries and leave conditions for GP trainees. In South Australia, AMA SA has also established its first International Medical Graduate (IMG) Committee to break down barriers so overseas trained doctors who want to work here can do so unhindered.
Improving the workforce culture in South Australia’s public hospitals has been another priority. Rates of bullying, harassment and discrimination remain stubbornly high, but AMA SA remains committed to working with SA Health and the State Government to improve reporting pathways and address the systemic issues underpinning this unacceptable behaviour. The safety and wellbeing of junior doctors depends on it.
As President, my primary objective has been to listen to the diverse voices of our members. Whether you are a rural GP, a junior doctor, or a specialist, your experiences and insights have been invaluable.
I would like to thank my predecessor, Dr Michelle Atchison, and former President Dr Chris Moy who asked me to take a path that may otherwise have remained unexplored. A/Prof Peter Subramaniam, Committee of General Practice Chair Dr Bridget Sawyer and AMA SA Council have provided invaluable support. My time as President has overlapped with that of Ms Nicole Sykes, whose leadership is steering AMA SA into a future built on a foundation of good governance and operational strategy.
As Chair of the Board, I provide the following update on AMA SA’s financial performance for the 2024 calendar year.
Total income for the year was $1.560 million, compared to $1.742 million in 2023. The decrease is primarily due to a 6% reduction in membership subscriptions and a lower return on financial assets, with gains of $394,839 in 2024 compared to $575,676 in the previous year.
Total expenses increased by 14% to $1.574 million. This increase reflects several one-off and strategic costs, including the planned closure and windup of the Registered Training Organisation (RTO),
relocation to new premises, and investment in staffing and operational resources to support AMA SA’s long-term sustainability plan and strengthened member engagement.
As at 31 December 2024, AMA SA’s net assets total $7.142 million, representing a modest 0.2% decrease from the previous year.
Another period of change is now beginning for AMA SA. As a new President and Vice President step into their roles, I’m confident that our organisation will remain a strong and steadfast voice for the doctors in this organisation and across our health system. It has been a privilege to represent you.
2024 was a year of action, delivery, and continued reform at AMA SA. With the launch of our 2024-2028 Strategic Plan, 2024 has been about transforming intention into implementation – resourcing and strengthening our team to realise an ambitious agenda shaped by members and backed by sound governance.
One of the highlights involved connecting with members across the state through a rural tour led by our President Dr John Williams. This initiative provided valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities facing rural doctors and reinforced the importance of amplifying regional voices in our advocacy and support efforts. A huge thank you to all our members who warmly welcomed us in our travels and shared their time with us.
We proudly worked towards expanding a suite of educational events that cater to different career stages, re-establishing AMA SA as a centre for professional development and collegiate connection. These events were made possible through the continued support and engagement of our valued corporate partners, including Hood Sweeney, Norman Waterhouse and Avant.
CEO
Their expertise has helped enhance our offerings and deliver real, practical value to our members.
A significant operational milestone occurred with our relocation to new, modern office premises. The fresh and professional environment reflects the renewed energy of our organisation and better supports our team and members. As part of this move, we undertook the respectful cataloguing and preservation of a large collection of AMA SA’s historical artworks and medical artefacts. In line with our commitment to honour the profession’s legacy, these items were thoughtfully donated to the CALHN Medical Museum, where they will be properly cared for and displayed. A small, curated selection of pieces has been retained at AMA SA, as endorsed by Council, to preserve a tangible connection to our rich history. I acknowledge and thank the work of our History Committee in their thorough documentation to retain the rich history of AMA.
Since the formal launch of the Strategic Plan at our 2023 AGM, we’ve been actively building the internal capability required to deliver on it –recruiting the right team members, refining our
NICOLE SYKES
internal systems, and ensuring we have the tools to execute effectively. At the heart of this effort has been a renewed focus on strengthening governance. Behind the scenes, we’ve worked to ensure transparency, accountability, and member confidence in how decisions are made and how resources are allocated.
A key milestone this year was the creation of our International Medical Graduate (IMG) Committee in late 2024. This new forum reflects our commitment to inclusivity and better representation across our profession, giving IMG doctors a dedicated space to raise issues and shape solutions.
We’ve also worked hard to ensure members feel informed and engaged through refreshed communication platforms. Both Pulse and medicSA have undergone transformations –delivering curated content that is relevant, timely, and engaging. This effort has led to a broader readership and stronger connection with our members.
Another key focus has been media visibility. Our proactive engagement strategy has ensured our members’ voices are increasingly reflected in public discourse and policy conversations. Whether it’s Medicare reform, payroll tax, or public hospital pressures, we have worked to ensure that doctors are part of the conversation – not just as observers, but as leaders.
Most importantly, Dr Williams and I have worked side by side, consistently engaging with key health stakeholders to advocate for our members and voice their concerns. This ongoing dialogue is crucial to ensure our members are well-represented in decision-making processes and that vital information is communicated back to them.
The year ahead will continue to demand focus, innovation, and unity. I remain energised by the commitment of our members, volunteers, and Board – and confident that together, we are building a stronger, more sustainable AMA SA.
AMA SA Board
From left to right:
A/Prof. Peter Subramaniam | Vice President
Dr Shriram Nath | Ordinary Director
Ms Megan Webster | Independent Director
Dr John Williams | Chair/President
Prof. Tarun Bastiampillai | Ordinary Director
Dr Bridget Sawyer | Ordinary Director
Prof. Edward (Ted) Mah | Ordinary Director
AMA SA Council
Dr John Williams (GP) | President
A/Prof. Peter Subramaniam (Vascular Surgeon) | Vice President
Dr Michelle Atchison (Psychiatrist) | Immediate Past President
Dr Karen Koh (Dermatologist) | Chair
Dr Hannah Szewczyk (Doctor in Training) | Ordinary Member
Dr Vikas Jasoria (GP) | Ordinary Member - GP
Dr Emily Kirkpatrick (GP) | Ordinary Member – GP
Dr Bridget Sawyer (GP) | Ordinary Member - GP
Dr Nimit Singhal (Oncologist) | Ordinary Member
Dr Krishnaswamy Sundararajan (Intensivist) | Ordinary Member
A/Prof. William Tam (Gastroenterologist) | Ordinary Member
Dr Isaac Tennant (Doctor in Training) | Ordinary Member
Practice Group Representatives
Dr Clair Pridmore | Public Hospital Doctor
Dr Hayden Cain | Doctor in Training
Dr Jerida Keane | Rural Doctor
Dr Alice Fitzpatrick | Rural Doctor
Dr Chris Moy | General Practice
Specialty Group Representatives
Dr Raj Ramadoss (Intensivist) | Anaesthetists / Intensivists
Dr Louis Papilion (Anaesthetist) | Anaesthetists / Intensivists
Dr Cathrin Parsch | Emergency Physicians
A/Prof. Michael Goggin | Ophthalmologists
Dr Shriram Nath | Pathologists
Dr Andrew Russell | Physicians
Prof. Tarun Bastiampillai | Psychiatrists
Dr Christopher Dobbins | Surgeons
Prof. Edward (Ted) Mah | Surgeons
Student Representatives - non-voting
Hannah Kieu | Adelaide University
Lydia Smalls | Flinders University
Our core values of trust, collaboration, and inclusion
Values driving action
The values of trust, inclusion, and collaboration underpin everything AMA SA does, as we strive to create a more transparent, inclusive, contemporary organisation that offers increased value for members.
Good governance
AMA SA implemented a new strategic plan and a new constitution in 2024, establishing a clear strategic direction for the organisation and modernising how our Board, Council, and committees function. Our broader commitment to good governance included a comprehensive review of many documents that stipulate how AMA SA operates, including our Board charters, volunteer recruitment policy, and committees’ terms of reference.
Transparent recruitment
Our strengthened governance processes have ensured more transparency around the recruitment of Board members, councillors, and committee members. The organisation welcomed four new Board members and five new councillors in 2024, who were elected through open voting processes.
Team building
AMA SA’s team expanded significantly during 2024, following the creation of several new roles including a Business Development and Operations Manager; a Membership, Marketing, and Events Manager; a Membership and Content Coordinator; and a Media and Communications Advisor. The high-functioning staff in these positions, along with those in existing roles, ensure AMA SA continues to serve members effectively.
New office
AMA SA relocated to our new office on the corner of King William Street and South Terrace in December. The centrally located, modern premises foster a professional environment and improve engagement opportunities with volunteers and other members.
Enhanced representation
AMA SA’s President and CEO conducted more than 300 meetings with politicians, political staffers, government departments, and stakeholders during 2024, ensuring our members are well-represented in decision-making processes.
Policy submissions
The organisation responded to 25 parliamentary inquiries and requests for comment from Select Committees, ministers, and government departments on issues that affect our members and community health.
AMA SA featured in the media more than 430 times, across television, print, radio, and digital news during 2024. Our strong media presence builds public trust in our organisation and ensures members’ views are effectively communicated. AMA SA also overhauled its social media, significantly boosting our followers, reach, and engagement. Media & social media
Strategic Plan 2024-2028
As AMA SA looks to the future, we recognise the need to adapt and evolve, while building on our proud history and traditions. It involves a cultural shift prioritising collaboration, innovation and continuous learning to better meet the needs of medical professionals for the benefit of all.
OUR PURPOSE
AMA SA is dedicated to advocating for the interests of medical practitioners, influencing healthcare policy to ensure patient-centred and equitable systems. It upholds professional standards, promotes ethical conduct, and fosters collaboration within the medical community.
AMA SA plays a crucial role in shaping a healthcare landscape that prioritises the wellbeing of both medical practitioners and the South Australian population.
OUR VISION
A contemporary and collegiate community uniting all doctors, fostering mutual support and simultaneously establishing connections among health businesses with a shared objective, all aimed at supporting medical practitioners to deliver improved community health outcomes.
Collaboration is a fundamental pillar of our Strategic Plan. Through our shared resources and expertise, and by establishing tactical partnerships, we will aim to bridge gaps, drive innovation and amplify our advocacy and impact. By working more strategically we can confront complex challenges together and deliver better health outcomes for doctors and the diverse communities they serve.
Collaborative influence Delivering excellence
In the pursuit of excellence, the Strategic Plan commits to continuous improvement. We will embrace emerging technologies, streamline workflows and build a culture of innovation to become more efficient, increasingly agile and expand our reach. We will establish key performance indicators to measure progress, gather feedback and refine our strategies.
The Strategic Plan aims to support the wellbeing, professional development and overall satisfaction of our members by delivering exceptional value, personalised experiences and innovative solutions. As part of our member-focused approach AMA SA has developed a range of educational programs and events to foster a community that is well-equipped to address the challenges and opportunities facing an ever-evolving medical landscape.
Member investment Sustainable performance
Securing and enhancing AMA SA’s financial resilience is a central aspect of our Strategic Plan. We aim to do this by diversifying revenue sources and working closely with the federation to optimise resources and minimise duplication. As a conscientious corporate citizen, we are committed to transparency, ethical conduct and responsible business practices which have a positive impact on the planet and society.
AMA SA Committees
Doctors in Training Committee
Dr Hayden Cain | Chair
Dr Sam Paull | Deputy Chair
Dr Tom Gransbury | Deputy Chair
Dr Bryan Loh
Lydia Smalls
Dr Jerida Keane
Dr Hannah Szewczyk
Dr Jordyn Tomba
Dr Sean Jolly
Committee of General Practice
Dr Bridget Sawyer | Co-Chair
Dr Alex Main | Co-Chair
Dr Andrew Kellie
Dr Ayaz Aslam
Dr Adam Overwheel
Dr Chris Bollen
Dr Chris Moy
Dr Johanna Kilmartin
Dr John Williams
Dr Seshu Boda
Road Safety Committee
Dr Monika Moy | Chair
Dr Peter Ford
Prof. Bill Heddle
Dr Steve Holmes
Mr Martin Small
A/Prof. Jeremy Woolley
Dr Jane Lomax-Smith
A/Prof. Rob Atkinson
International Medical Graduate Committee
Dr Simon Clark | Chair
Dr Sarabjit Saggu
Dr Ayaz Aslam
Dr Abdullah Rana
History Committee
Dr Thomas Turner | Chair
A/Prof. Ross Philpot
Dr David Evans
Dr Peter Joseph
Dr Peter Kreminski
Editorial Committee
Dr Roger Sexton
Dr Shriram Nath
Dr Robert Menz
Return to Work SA Specialist Reference Group
Dr Michelle Atchison | Chair
Dr Gary Champion
Dr Graham Wright
Dr Roger Paterson
Dr John Tomich
Dr Peter Jezukaitis
Policy and advocacy
Setting the agenda
AMA SA was the dominant voice in speaking for doctors and patients in 2024. Our advocacy sought to improve systems, care and working environments so everyone involved in the health system can benefit and thrive.
General practice
AMA SA championed general practice as the cornerstone of Australia’s health system, emphasising the crucial role of GPs in keeping the community well and reducing pressure on hospitals. We challenged policies that threaten doctors’ livelihoods and undermine patient care, including payroll tax, ‘scope creep’, and the Urgent Care Clinic model. We also supported the Federal AMA’s calls for generational reform of Medicare.
Public hospitals
AMA SA highlighted concerns about ambulance ramping, bed block, and delayed essential surgery through the media and through regular meetings with Health and Wellbeing Minister Chris Picton, South Australia’s Chief Medical Officer Dr Michael Cusack and others. We lobbied for a new National Health Reform Agreement which guarantees sufficient funding for South Australia’s public hospitals now and in the future.
Payroll tax
AMA SA worked with senior representatives from the South Australian Government, RevenueSA, and RACGP to influence legislation and decision-making on payroll tax. We secured commitments from the Treasurer that non-GP specialists will not be subject to retrospective payroll tax assessments and that rural GPs won’t be liable for payroll tax. We continue to advocate for an exemption for all private specialists and clinics, including GPs.
Fairer fees
AMA SA is committed to ensuring all doctors are compensated appropriately for their time and expertise. We conducted regular meetings with ReturnToWorkSA (RTWSA) to lobby for fairer fees which align with the AMA Fees List. We also secured the support of the South Australian Health Minister for AMA Victoria’s campaign to make Ahpra registration fees fairer for doctors on parental leave.
Junior doctor health and
safety
AMA SA published the annual Hospital Health Check, highlighting the bullying, racism, discrimination and challenging work conditions that junior doctors continue to experience at unacceptably high levels in the state’s public hospitals. Our Doctors in Training Committee made eight recommendations to SA Health to make workplaces safer for junior doctors in South Australia, including the establishment of clear bullying reporting pathways.
Workforce sustainability
AMA SA lobbied for policies to address the GP shortfall. We supported the Federal AMA’s calls to equalise salary and leave conditions for GP trainees and advocated for more training places and rotations. In South Australia, we continued to support the rollout of the single employer model in regional areas. AMA SA also established an International Medical Graduate (IMG) committee to identify barriers and establish support systems for IMGs in South Australia.
Rural health
Dr John Williams, with the support of the AMA SA secretariat, embarked on a rural tour of South Australia which has enabled AMA SA to gain a deeper understanding of the challenges confronting our members and colleagues in regional centres across the state.
Road safety
AMA SA’s Road Safety Committee (RSC) is liaising with key stakeholders from the Department for Infrastructure and Transport, South Australia Police, and Optometry Australia about possible updates to the ‘fitness to drive’ form to increase the safety of all road users. The RSC also contacted ministers and the media to express concerns about e-scooters and the need to mandate certain vehicle safety technologies.
Women’s healthcare
AMA SA increased awareness of South Australia’s abortion legislation as an appropriate framework for what is and should be a women’s health issue. We recommended action to support women seeking endometriosis diagnoses and treatment and advocated for changes to the ‘PBS Prescriber Bag’ to include medications for reproductive care, including emergency contraception.
Children’s healthcare
AMA SA represented members at the Premier’s Social Media Summit, aiming to reduce the mental health impacts of social media on young South Australians. We also supported a South Australian Government campaign to ensure toddler and infant food meets best international standards for nutritional content, labelling, and promotion.
Autism advocacy
President Dr John Williams represented AMA SA on the South Australian Government’s Autism Assessment and Diagnosis Advisory Group which seeks to break down barriers for early autism assessment and intervention.
Smoking, vaping, and illicit drugs
AMA SA supported state and national efforts to reduce access to and the availability of vaping and nicotine pouch products. We also supported South Australian Government initiatives to combat smoking and methamphetamine use.
Gambling action
AMA SA wrote to all national and state parliamentarians to reinforce the need for legislation to minimise the mental health risks of online and television gambling advertising.
In the spotlight Highlights of a memorable year
President’s Rural Tour
AMA SA President Dr John Williams covered thousands of kilometres during his rural tour of the state.
The tour started in the Adelaide Hills on 23 May 2024. Since then, Dr Williams has visited the Riverland, the Limestone Coast, Kangaroo Island and the Iron Triangle, as well as practices near his hometown, Port Lincoln.
Dr Williams says the tour has allowed him to better represent the views of regional doctors.
‘The rural tour has allowed me to better understand the barriers, challenges and rewards of rural medicine,’ Dr Williams said.
‘The insights I’ve gained have strengthened my voice. When I speak with the Premier or hold a press conference, I can be confident that I’m speaking on behalf of the doctors I’ve met.’
Dr Williams at Mount Gambier’s Blue Lake
Ms Sykes and Dr Williams at the Mount Gambier Rural Tour dinner
Limestone Coast Local Health Network (LCLHN) Director of Medical Services Dr Hemant Diesh, LCLHN Executive Director of Medical Services Dr Sue Abhary, Dr Williams, LCLHN CEO Emma Poland and AMA SA CEO Nicole Sykes
Dr Williams (c) with doctors on Kangaroo Island
President’s Breakfast
Dr John Williams welcomed colleagues and friends to his end-of-year President’s Breakfast celebration at Plant 3 Bowden on 29 November 2024.
The event was attended by members of AMA SA’s Board, Council and committees and representatives of AMA SA’s partners Hood Sweeney, Avant and Norman Waterhouse.
Dr Williams was also pleased to welcome other special guests including Health and Wellbeing Minister Chris Picton, Shadow Minister for Regional Health Services Penny Pratt and Chief Medical Officer Dr Mike Cusack.
‘This event is always a wonderful way to celebrate the year – and to see face-to-face some of the people with whom we work closely,’ Dr Williams said.
‘It’s always an honour and privilege in this job to speak to doctors across the system.’
Dr Williams addressing President’s Breakfast guests
Health & Wellbeing Minister Chris Picton
Dr Mark Ralfe with breakfast guests
Dr Williams, Dr Bridget Sawyer, Dr Andrew Kellie, Dr Alex Main, Dr Mark Ralfe
President’s Breakfast guests at Plant 3 Bowden
AMA SA Vice President Associate Professor Peter Subramaniam, Minister Picton, Dr Williams, Shadow Minister for Regional Health Services Penny Pratt
Ms Sykes, Dr Williams, RACGP SA Chair Dr Sian Goodson, RACGP SA Manager Jo Rayner
Outstanding Achievement Award
The late Dr Thomas Turner was posthumously awarded the AMA SA Outstanding Achievement Award at the President’s Breakfast.
Dr Turner, who was a dedicated member of the AMA SA History Committee for nearly a decade, died in September 2024 at the age of 92.
The Outstanding Achievement Award, which was accepted by Dr Turner’s wife Jan and daughter Jane, recognises his contribution to preserving the rich history of the medical profession in South Australia.
Dr Turner was a member of the History Committee for almost a decade and developed and maintained the committee’s website until his final days.
AMA SA Student Medals
Dr John (Jock) Duncan from the University of Adelaide and Dr Grace Mackenzie from Flinders University were awarded the 2024 AMA SA Student Medals. They were recognised for their determination to make the medical school experience as good as it can be, to produce the best possible doctors.
The late Dr Thomas Turner
Dr Williams with Dr Turner’s daughter Jane Turner Goldsmith and wife Jan Turner
Dr Grace Mackenzie
Dr John Williams and Dr Jock Duncan
Dr Williams with new Life Members Dr Dennis Ankor and Dr Geoff Martin
2024 Life Members
Recognising 50 years’ service to their patients and the AMA
The newest Life Members of the AMA have been honoured for their commitment to the organisation.
Retired Morphett Vale GP Dr Dennis Ankor and Hazelwood Park GP Dr Geoff Martin were presented with life membership at the AMA SA Annual General Meeting on 22 June 2024, along with Dr Thomas Klaveniek and Dr Prudence McEvoy who could not attend.
Dr Ankor and Dr Martin joined the AMA when they graduated from medical school in 1974 and have remained active members since.
‘The AMA covers all doctors of all disciplines,’ Dr Ankor said.
‘It’s also trusted by the general population. That’s a very good position to be in for a professional body.’
It was a sentiment echoed by Dr Martin.
‘What sets the AMA apart is its ability to represent all doctors and not just one element of the profession,’ he said.
‘Despite the challenges facing general practice, the AMA is working to shift the focus back onto patient care.’
Dr Williams thanked all the 2024 Life Members for their dedication to the profession and their patients.
2024 Financials
Australian Medical Association (SA) Inc.
Statement of Profit or Loss and Other Comprehensive Income for the year ended 31 December 2024
Australian Medical Association (SA) Inc.
Statement of Financial Position as at 31 December 2024
Australian Medical Association (SA) Inc.
Statement of Cash Flows for the year ended 31 December 2024
