Federal government, AMA 'racist'

Issue 

Picture

Federal government, AMA 'racist'

SYDNEY — The proposal by federal health minister Dr Michael Wooldridge to drop immigration restrictions on foreign doctors willing to work in rural Australia — while maintaining discrimination against Australian citizens and residents who are doctors qualified overseas — is racist, according to Dr Asaad Razaghi, national president of the Australian Doctors Trained Overseas Association.

Razaghi, his wife Mary and other members of the ADTOA are highly qualified doctors unable to get medical postings in Australia because the authorities refuse to recognise their qualifications.

Razaghi recently led a 48-day hunger strike outside NSW Parliament House in protest at ADTOA members — predominantly from Third World countries — being forced to sit loaded Australian Medical Council tests designed to freeze them out of Australia's medical closed shop, administered by the Australian Medical Association.

"Dr Wooldridge and [AMA] president David Brand have cooked up a racist recipe which favours British, New Zealand and South African doctors", Razaghi said.

If you like our work, become a supporter

Green Left is a vital social-change project and aims to make all content available online, without paywalls. With no corporate sponsors or advertising, we rely on support and donations from readers like you.

For just $5 per month get the Green Left digital edition in your inbox each week. For $10 per month get the above and the print edition delivered to your door. You can also add a donation to your support by choosing the solidarity option of $20 per month.

Freecall now on 1800 634 206 or follow the support link below to make a secure supporter payment or donation online.