Elevating women in medicine

Full representation of women in medicine – across general practice, operating theatres, research labs and boardrooms – isn’t just about equity. It delivers better patient care and a stronger health system.

While the number of female medical practitioners in Australia has increased by 38 per cent over the past decade, women remain underrepresented across the profession. According to the latest Australian Institute of Health and Welfare data, women make up 45 per cent of all medical practitioners, but just 36 per cent of non-GP specialists.

To mark International Women’s Day on Saturday 8 March, AMA SA invited members from different specialties and career stages to reflect on their experiences as women in healthcare – why their contribution matters to patients and colleagues, and where progress is still needed.

Dr Gillian Watterson
AMA SA Councillor and paediatrician

‘As a female senior clinician in paediatric medicine, humility is my compass; it keeps me listening, learning, and leading a team where everyone is valued.

I lead by lifting up others: colleagues who contribute their expertise, and families who advocate for their children.

True leadership is quietly powerful – it listens first, speaks second, and always acts in the best interests of the patient and the team.

Every day I strive to build a culture where paediatric care is a partnership – clinicians, families, and children working together.

In my practice, leadership means flattening the hierarchy so that wisdom can rise from anywhere.’

Dr Fariba Behnia-Willison
AMA SA Councillor and gynaecologist

‘In my role as an AMA SA Councillor and in my work as an endo-gynaecologist, pelvic floor medicine and reconstruction specialist, I see every day the strength, resilience and leadership of women – both as patients and as professionals.

My role allows me the privilege to witness the transformative role women play in healthcare daily – blending clinical precision with empathy, advocacy and deep cultural understanding.

Equitable healthcare for women is not a privilege – it is a clinical necessity. When we invest in women’s health, we reduce preventable disease, strengthen communities and break the cycle of silence surrounding conditions that have been under-recognised for generations.

International Women’s Day is not only a celebration of progress; it is also a call to redesign our systems so women are truly empowered to lead. When women are elevated in medicine, we see safer care, stronger communities and a healthcare system that reflects the needs of all in our society.’

Dr Jayanthi Jayakaran
AMA SA Councillor and Dean of Medicine and Public Health, Flinders University

‘We don’t just need more women in medicine – we need systems that allow them to thrive. 

Unlocking the full potential of our female workforce isn’t just good policy – it’s smart healthcare.’

Dr Alice Fitzpatrick
AMA SA Councillor and GP registrar, Port Lincoln

‘Every woman deserves the opportunity to access appropriate, timely and affordable healthcare. Unfortunately, disparities for women living in rural and remote Australia remain.

As a rural GP registrar and an AMA SA regional representative, I will continue to advocate for women and keep talking about how we can improve care, reduce systemic inequalities and empower all women.’

Dr Sara Bilwani
CAHLN intern

‘As an intern, you quickly see how many brilliant women are setting the tone on the wards. These are clinicians who are meticulous with patients, communication and teamwork.

Those things aren’t “soft skills” – they’re what hold our healthcare system together.’