Celebrating 100 Years of uninterrupted support to doctors
In July 1925, a small group of doctors in Perth came together with a shared vision - to protect the livelihoods and reputations of their colleagues. From this humble beginning, our purpose has remained clear: to support Members when they need it most, safeguard their professional integrity through a range of services, and promote the quality of the healthcare they deliver. This purpose remains embedded in everything we do.
“To support and protect the character and interests of legally qualified medical practitioners [...].”
Founded by doctors, for doctors, MDA National was built on a spirit of collaboration among medical professionals, united by a shared commitment to support one another. This sentiment continues to shape everything we do, giving our Members the confidence and peace of mind they need to focus on what matters most — caring for their patients.
100 years on from that historical day, MDA National remains strong as a leading medical defence organisation that has never made a call on its Members, with a legacy of achievement, respect and loyalty to doctors, and supporting good medical practice across Australia.
Our Century
Watch our new documentary that highlights the people who contributed to our thriving organisation, working with purpose and resilience.
1. From humble beginnings
Originally established as the Medical Defence Association of Western Australia (MDA WA), the organisation was founded by a group of doctors on 30 July 1925 at Perth Hospital (now Royal Perth Hospital). The founding Membership included 71 doctors, with Dr John Holland, regarded as the organisation's founder, serving as its first Chair. MDA WA was built on collaboration, drawing knowledge and resources from the UK-based Medical Protection Society (MPS) to create a system tailored to the needs of Australia’s medical professionals.
2. Growing strong and independent
Throughout the 20th century, MDA WA significantly expanded its support for Western Australian medical practitioners, providing medico-legal assistance and professional services. In 1975, local accountant Peter Forbes began working with MDA WA, later becoming Managing Director and CEO. Forbes was instrumental in driving the organisation’s growth and success over the next four decades, leading until his retirement in 2014. Under his leadership, MDA WA evolved into MDA National, becoming one of Australia’s leading medical defence organisations.
In 1989, a pivotal decision was made to end the partnership with the Medical Protection Society (MPS). This bold step enabled MDA WA to independently manage its own medical indemnity coverage and better serve its Members. By 1992, the organisation had established its own insurance company and restructured to support its expanding membership. In 1997, MDA WA became Australia’s first claims-made medical defence organisation, providing greater clarity and transparency around liability and risk.
3. MDA National is formed, and services expand Australia-wide
After more than 70 years of service, MDA National was established in June 2000. The organisation’s leadership recognised the need to evolve into a national indemnity insurer — expanding not only geographically but also structurally, becoming part of a national medical defence organisation. This step ensured that doctors across Australia, regardless of location, could access the same high level of support and protection. The formation of MDA National reflected a strong commitment to staying relevant and continuing to meet the needs of doctors into the future.
4. Navigating the medical indemnity crisis
The early 2000s presented significant challenges as the medical indemnity industry was rocked by the collapse of a major insurer in the eastern states, triggered by the liquidation of a large Australian insurer supporting many MDOs at the time. Thanks to Peter Forbes’ foresight, MDA National was well-prepared to weather the storm. Strong leadership and prudent financial management enabled the organisation not only to survive but to thrive during this period of uncertainty, ensuring Australian doctors maintained access to the professional indemnity insurance they needed. In response, MDA National rapidly expanded its presence in the eastern states, providing doctors with a stable and trusted alternative for support and protection.
5. Towards the future
Nearly 100 years on, with over 46,000 Members and Insureds, MDA National continues to shape a better future for its Members, staff, partners, and communities. The organisation is investing in meaningful partnerships that align with its sustainability and social impact values, while developing new programs to strengthen business capabilities and systems.
In 2024, MDA National formally commenced its Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) journey and entered the Reflect stage of its Reconciliation Action Plan, reinforcing its commitment to Indigenous organisations and broader community initiatives. As it looks ahead, MDA National remains dedicated to delivering outstanding support to Members, evolving its services, and making a positive impact.
In 2025, the organisation reflects proudly on its history while continuing to grow as a leading medical defence organisation — one that has never made a call on its Members and remains committed to providing trusted, personalised support to doctors across Australia.
Our History
