Emerging inequality and potential unconstitutionality — the case for reform of the intern priority system

Abstract

Internship selection is becoming more competitive due to substantial increases in numbers of medical graduates. Australian states operate a "priority system" for medical internship selection which discriminates against Australian interstate applicants. This discrimination arguably infringes section 117 of the Australian Constitution, which seeks to ensure that all citizens are treated equally and promotes national unity. The priority system should be reformed. It is inequitable and inconsistent with other aspects of medical training and regulation.