AMA President, Dr Rosanna Capolingua, said she was shocked and saddened to hear of the bashing of former AMA president, Dr Mukesh Haikerwal.

Dr Haikerwal suffered serious injuries when he was assaulted and mugged in Melbourne over the weekend.

"I was deeply saddened to hear of the awful attack on Mukesh," Dr Capolingua said.

"That a defenceless man going for a walk can be set upon so violently by other humans is shocking.

"Mukesh is a very generous person and has readily given so much of his time, passion and commitment to improving patient care in Australia – he is admired by patients, colleagues, and policy-makers alike.

"He is in our hearts and prayers today and in the days ahead.

"I and my colleagues in the medical profession send our best wishes and support to Mukesh, Karyn and their boys.

"We hope his recovery is swift and complete."

Australian Medical Association