Strike cancelled after doctors reach last-minute deal

Key points

• Doctors at Victorian public hospitals have called off a 12-hour strike planned for Wednesday after reaching a 12-month interim deal with the state government. The agreement changes doctors' working hours and addresses overtime for doctors in training.
• Kevin Shi, secretary of ASMOF Victoria, said the deal brings some improvements to hours and fatigue but falls short of expectations, and talks will continue.
• AMA Victoria president Simon Judkins said the deal protects patient safety but does not address understaffing or pay, which will remain the focus of future efforts.