The Australian Medical Council: beyond the first 25 years

Independent advice continues to be vital for maintaining standards in medical training

Many younger doctors may have trouble believing it was only 25 years ago that the assessment of Australian medical schools (for the purpose of medical registration in Australia) changed from assessment by the General Medical Council of the United Kingdom to assessment by a local independent authority. In 1985, the accreditation process was transferred to Australia, and the Australian Medical Council (AMC) was established. The AMC recently marked its first 25 years by publishing its history, Assuring medical standards: the Australian Medical Council 1985–2010.1 The book catalogues many impressive achievements and also describes in detail some significant obstacles in the Council’s progress. Australia now has an almost seamless accreditation process for all phases of medical education (medical student education, postgraduate training and, through the medical colleges, continuing medical education) that is envied by other nations. In addition, the AMC has established a reputation internationally as a leader in the assessment of international medical graduates and for its work in supporting them in preparing for assessment.