Aboriginal Health for GPs

Discover why this offers fantastic career prospects for your move down under.

The Australian government supports a special scheme, the Practice Incentives Program – Indigenous Health Incentive (PIP-IHI), which provides incentive payments to practices that deliver care to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander patients

  • For patients who identify as Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander, there are free annual health checks  available every 9–12 months — and follow-up care when needed.

  • As a GP working in this space, this means there tends to be steady demand.

  • Practices that deliver culturally appropriate and consistent care to Indigenous patients may qualify for additional funding or incentives beyond standard Medicare billing.

For a GP who chooses to work with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities, there is both meaningful demand and a funding/incentive structure that can make it financially viable and more stable than many general-practice settings.

Why Aboriginal Health Work Is Especially Meaningful and Interesting

Working with First Nations communities isn’t just about increased demand or financial incentive.  It also offers deeply rewarding professional and community impact. Some reasons why this work can be particularly fulfilling:

  • Many Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people face elevated risks of chronic diseases (diabetes, heart disease, etc.) and often have unmet health needs or limited access to regular preventive care.

  • By offering culturally appropriate care, GPs can play a critical role in closing the health-gap between Indigenous and non-Indigenous Australians, improving long-term health outcomes, and contributing to community wellbeing.

  • The scope of work tends to be broad and varied: you are likely to be involved in preventive health checks, chronic-disease management, patient education, coordination with allied health, follow-up care, you will be opportunity to practice holistic primary care.

For many GPs, this mix of meaningful impact, continuity of care, and community engagement makes Aboriginal health work not just a job — but a vocation.

We currently have a Fantastic GP Job Opportunity in Brisbane Queensland

Why Brisbane Suburbs Makes Sense

  • Regions around the City  — often outside of the largest metropolitan hubs — can offer a more balanced lifestyle compared with large urban centres, potentially with fewer of the pressures and burnout associated with inner-city practice.

  • Serving Indigenous communities can combine the benefits of a general practice career with the unique rewards and supports associated with Indigenous health funding and community-oriented care.

  • For a GP starting or re-orienting their career, this kind of role can provide stable demand, a diverse patient base, and the opportunity to make a real difference in population health.

Current GP vacancies

 

Further Reading

AHPRA Specialist Expedited Pathway- Supervised Explained

What is Life Like Working as a GP in Australia

Discover Perth

The Fast-Growing Coastal City Offering GPs an Unmatched Lifestyle and Career Opportunity

Perth, Western Australia’s sun-soaked capital, is quickly earning a reputation as one of the most attractive destinations for UK and international GPs. Backed by massive investment from the state’s thriving mining and resources sector, Perth has transformed into a modern, affluent, family-friendly city,  all while maintaining its relaxed coastal charm.

Whether you’re seeking a better work-life balance, stronger earning potential, or more sunshine than you ever thought possible, Perth offers an enviable blend of professional opportunity and high-quality living.

A Coastal Lifestyle Built Around Sunshine, Space, and the Outdoors

Perth enjoys more sunshine hours than any other Australian city, and locals make full use of it. Life here is naturally outdoorsy: morning ocean swims, alfresco coffee on the way to work, and walks along white-sand beaches at sunset are part of the everyday rhythm.

Beaches and Coastal Living – Perth’s beaches — Cottesloe, City Beach, Scarborough and countless hidden coastal coves — are clean, safe and stunning. Unlike the busier east coast, the coastline here feels spacious and uncrowded. Families love the picnic spots, cycle paths, surf clubs and barbecues dotted along the shore.

Nature on Your Doorstep – From the Swan River to Kings Park to the wine regions of Swan Valley and Margaret River, nature is always close by. Weekends can be as adventurous or relaxing as you choose: paddleboarding, hiking, boating, wine tasting, or simply relaxing with friends in Perth’s many green spaces.

Space to Live and Breathe – Perth is known for its larger homes, generous gardens, and open neighbourhoods — a refreshing change for many UK GPs used to life in more compact, crowded cities. Families benefit from excellent public and private schools, safe communities, and short commutes.

A Modern, Affluent, Future-Focused City

Perth’s economy has been supercharged by ongoing investment from the mining and resources industry, resulting in:

  • well-funded infrastructure

  • new suburbs and expanding communities

  • abundant healthcare needs

  • high earning potential for GPs

  • a stable, prosperous job market

This investment has created an emerging, forward-looking city with excellent public transport, new shopping and dining precincts, and a buzzing cultural scene. Perth is quickly becoming one of Australia’s most desirable cities for young professionals, families, and international talent.

New DPA Areas Offering Fresh Opportunities

With more suburbs in and around Perth now designated as DPA, overseas-trained GPs have increasing opportunities to join growing practices in some of the region’s most sought-after communities. This means you can enjoy the Perth lifestyle while building a rewarding medical career with high patient demand and strong practice support.

Closer to the UK and India — The “Right Side” of Australia

Perth offers a significant practical advantage: it’s geographically closer to the UK and India than cities on Australia’s east coast.

With flight times of around 21 hours to both destinations, visiting home is easier, quicker, and less exhausting. This makes Perth especially appealing for GPs with family ties abroad who want the benefits of Australian life without feeling isolated from loved ones.

If you’re looking for a place where your medical career can flourish, and where life outside of work truly feels like a lifestyle upgrade. Perth may be the perfect fit. Whether you prefer coastal living or thriving urban suburbs, we have GP vacancies across Perth to suit your needs.Please do get  in touch with one of our team to find out more

Further Reading

AHPRA Expedited Specialist Pathway: Key Updates from Our Brisbane Meeting

GP Salary Australia: How Much Can You Earn in 2025?

AHPRA Expedited Specialist Pathway: Key Updates From Our Recent Meeting

Last week, we met with AHPRA to discuss the ongoing development of the AHPRA Expedited Specialist Pathway, a route increasingly used by international medical graduates (IMGs) and particularly UK-trained GPs seeking Australian medical registration. As as agency supporting many overseas doctors with their AHPRA applications, the meeting offered valuable insights into  improvements, and future developments.

Which Specialties Are Using the AHPRA Expedited Specialist Pathway?

This pathway continues to be dominated by GPs.  However, other specialties now engaging with the pathway include:

  • anaesthesia
  • general practice
  • psychiatry
  • obstetrics and gynaecology

(Diagnostic Radiology, General Medicine and General Paediatrics to follow)

AHPRA is actively working with specialist colleges to expand the range of recognised comparable specialties, supporting the government’s push to attract more overseas-trained doctors to fill nationwide workforce shortages.

AHPRA acknowledged advised on ongoing  improvements to build on the user experience for the IMG doctors, medical recruitment agencies, and employers.

As part of this process, they are developing instructional videos and flowcharts to help navigate the application process as well as evidence checklists to help ensure all documents are submitted to avoid delays.

They are continuing to see an increase in IMG applications and this will continue to grow as the demand continues for GPs in Australia, they are looking at this long term to see where processes can be streamlined and made more efficient.

AHPRA Is Moving Toward a More Efficient IMG Pathway

The meeting clearly showed AHPRA’s commitment to improving:

  • The Expedited Specialist Pathway

  • IMG doctor experience

  • Agent and employer engagement

  • Processing speed and accuracy

With system upgrades, clearer guidance, and increased user friendly systems, the pathway is set to become smoother and more predictable—essential given the accelerating demand for overseas-trained doctors across Australia.

Further Reading

CPD for UK GPs in Australia

Australia’s GP Shortage:Patient Numbers

How UK and Irish Consultants Can Register with the Medical Council of New Zealand (MCNZ)

Thinking About Working in New Zealand?

If you’re a hospital consultant trained in the UK or Ireland and you’ve dreamed about better work-life balance, stunning coastlines, and a healthcare system that genuinely values specialist training, New Zealand might already be on your radar.

The Medical Council of New Zealand (MCNZ) registration process for UK & Irish consultants is well-structured. In this blog we outline the process as a general guide- everyone’s pathway is slightly different, which is why most consultants prefer us to handle this process for them.

How to Register With the Medical Council of New Zealand

Confirm your eligibility

New Zealand recognises UK & Irish medical training very favourably and there are two pathways you can take

  • Locum Tenens (for temporary placements)

  • Vocational (specialist) registration

Secure a consultant-level role

You normally need a formal job offer before MCNZ can finalise your registration. We have Consultant jobs across NZ helping you match to the right location and position.

Get your documents verified, for your application you will need your  medical degree and postgraduate specialist qualifications, proof of UK/Irish registration & good standing, identity documents and 3 professional references. You may also need  English language evidence such as IELTS or OET.  As part of our service, we will guide you through these steps so nothing is missed or delayed.

Submit your MCNZ application

MCNZ will then:

  • Review your docs

  • Confirm your training/experience pathway

  • Issue your registration decision

Arrive in NZ & activate your practising certificate

Once in New Zealand, you’ll complete a short sign-off process before you can start practising — and then you’re officially a specialist in NZ.

New Zealand offers more than beautiful scenery — although that certainly helps. UK and Irish consultants consistently talk about the more manageable workloads, strong team culture within hospitals, and the supportive approach from specialty colleges. There is a genuine focus on work-life balance, and the lifestyle is ideal for families as well as anyone who loves the outdoors.

Our team helps UK and Irish consultants understand which MCNZ registration pathway applies, secure the right consultant role in New Zealand, prepare and verify documents correctly, submit a complete Medical Council of New Zealand application, and relocate smoothly so you can start practising without stress. Whether you’re exploring a year abroad, seeking a fresh career perspective, or planning a longer-term move, we guide you every step of the way. You can read about Dr Chris story who moved to NZ as as a radiologist here.

Get in touch for personalised guidance on the Medical Council of New Zealand registration process and specialist job opportunities.

Australia’s GP Shortage: Patient numbers

Australia’s GP Shortage: The 2025 Reality Check

Australia’s General Practitioner (GP) shortage remains a pressing issue in 2025. Despite government initiatives, migration incentives, and increased funding, the latest data from the Department of Health, Disability and Ageing confirms that demand for GPs continues to outpace supply — and the gap is growing, especially outside metropolitan areas.

In 2024, there were 40,375 GPs working in primary care, marking a modest 1.7% increase since 2019. However, the number of full-time equivalent (FTE) GPs per 100,000 people actually declined from 117 in 2019 to 113 in 2024. This means that while more GPs are registered, fewer full-time hours are being worked overall.

The shortage isn’t evenly distributed. Rural and remote regions continue to face significant challenges, with fewer GPs per capita compared to urban centres.  For communities outside major cities, this translates to longer wait times, reduced continuity of care, and poorer health outcomes — issues that have persisted for decades.

Why Demand Keeps Growing?

One of the key drivers of rising demand is the increasing prevalence of chronic disease and an aging population. Between 2023 and 2048, even small percentage increases in major health conditions will result in hundreds of thousands of additional patients requiring ongoing GP care. The GP Supply and Demand Study (2024) projects a consistent undersupply of GPs through to 2048, with unmet demand rising across all states and territories

Several factors contribute to this persistent shortfall. More GPs are retiring than entering the profession, and many are choosing to work fewer hours. Workforce demographics are shifting, with overseas-trained doctors (IMGs) typically working longer hours, while a growing number of female GPs opt for more flexible schedules. Training bottlenecks also continue to limit the number of new registrars completing the pathway.

Overseas-trained doctors remain vital to maintaining access to primary care across Australia. Pathways such as the AHPRA Expedited Specialist Pathway, RACGP’s PEP Specialist Stream, and Distribution Priority Areas (DPAs) allow IMGs to work in shortage zones under special conditions, helping to fill critical gaps in the system.

How New GPs Can Build a Busy, Sustainable Practice

For new GPs entering the workforce — the ongoing shortage presents a unique opportunity. With strong demand almost everywhere, building a busy, sustainable practice is achievable with the right approach. Success often hinges on being available, building connections and trust.  Getting to know the local community is essential. Participating in events, collaborating with pharmacists, allied health providers, and schools can help build relationships and generate word-of-mouth referrals — still the most powerful growth tool for GPs. Offering a diverse mix of services, such as chronic disease management, mental health care, skin checks, and minor procedures, also helps attract and retain patients.

Technology plays a key role in being found. Online booking systems, telehealth options, and active profiles on platforms like Google and Healthengine make it easier for patients to discover and choose a GP.  Working as part of a well-organised team — including nurses, receptionists, and other clinicians — supports efficient, patient-centred care. Practices that prioritise continuity, accessibility, and consistent follow-ups tend to grow faster and retain patients more effectively.

For GPs considering a move to Australia, asking the right questions during interviews is crucial. Practice models and billing arrangements vary widely, and understanding patient flow,  and financial structures can make the difference between a full schedule and a slow start. It’s worth researching the practice online — checking their website, social media presence, and HotDoc listings — to see how they present themselves and how easy they are for patients to find.

During interviews, think about what you might want to ask to gauge how busy the practice is, what the average weekly billings per GP, typical session structures, and patient demographics. Find out whether the practice maintains a registered patient list or operates on open access, and ask about waiting lists or unmet demand. Clarify how sessional hours and payments are structured  and what the practice does to attract new patients.

Conclusion

Australia’s GP shortage isn’t going away anytime soon. While headcounts are rising, full-time capacity is falling, and chronic disease, population growth, and retirements continue to outpace recruitment. But for new GPs, this shortage represents opportunity. Those who combine strong clinical skills with community engagement, digital visibility, and patient-centred care will find themselves in high demand. Do your research and ask questions — it’s the best way to set yourself up for success in Australian general practice.

Further Reading

Top 10 Tips for GPs relocating to Australia

Bulk Billing Incentives in Nov 2025

References

Australian Government Department of Health, Disability and Ageing – General Practice Workforce Providing Primary Care Services in Australia, 2019–2024
GP Supply and Demand Study Compendium, August 2024 – hwd.health.gov.au

How to Gain FRACGP on the AHPRA Expedited Specialist Pathway

How to Gain FRACGP on the AHPRA Expedited Specialist Pathway

If you’re an overseas GP considering a move to Australia, one of the biggest questions we get asked is: how do I secure long-term recognition and Fellowship status?

The good news is that the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP) has now confirmed that doctors on the Expedited Specialist Pathway (ESP) can apply for Fellowship of the RACGP (FRACGP).

For many overseas doctors, this is the reassurance they’ve been waiting for. It means you’ll not only be able to live and work as a GP in Australia but also secure the long-term recognition that makes your career future-proof.

What’s required for your FRACGP application?

The application itself is quite straightforward. Here’s what the RACGP says you’ll need:

  • Proof of your AHPRA registration (including confirmation that you’ve completed the ESP and that any conditions on your registration have been removed).

  • An up-to-date CV.

  • Evidence of ALS and BLS training completed within the last 12 months.

  • Verified copies of your specialist GP qualification (such as MRCGP, MICGP or FRNZCGP), along with your completion certificates and details of where you trained.

How much does it cost?

The current fee is $990 plus GST. On top of that, you’ll need to be an RACGP member, which costs $1,440 a year. Many GPs already hold membership for CPD purposes, so you may have this in place already.

Two important steps in the process

It’s not just about paperwork — there are two additional steps you’ll need to complete:

1. Attestation from an RACGP Fellow

You’ll need an RACGP Fellow who knows you professionally (for at least 6 months within the past 24 months) to confirm your good character. They don’t have to be your direct supervisor — just someone who has worked with you in a professional capacity.

2. Collegiate Discussion

This is essentially a professional chat with RACGP representatives. It’s a chance to talk through your experience of working in Australia and to demonstrate your commitment to general practice.

When the ESP was first launched, some of the doctors we were supporting were worried that it might not lead to FRACGP,  The RACGP’s announcement has put those fears to rest and for international GPs, it means you now have a clear, recognised pathway to Fellowship. It also makes the decision to move to Australia much easier, knowing your long-term career is secure.

If you are considering a move  – Get in touch with our team today to find out how we can support your journey.

Take Your GP Career to New Zealand: How We Support Doctors From Europe and Israel

Are you a GP considering a move to New Zealand?

New Zealand Medical Council  recognises comparable training for 29 countries currently meaning you can apply for registration under their comparable health system pathway making it easier than ever to live and work in Aotearoa.

What Is the Comparable Health System Pathway?

These 29 countries are seen as having health systems comparable to New Zealand’s, which means  eligible GPs can apply for provisional general registration without re-training.

To qualify, you generally need:

  • An acceptable medical degree

  • At least 33 months’ recent practice in a comparable health system

  • Current full or general registration in your home country

  • A job offer in New Zealand (with supervision included)

From there, you’ll work under supervision before progressing to a full general scope of practice.

How We Support You

We specialise in helping GPs from around the world secure their dream roles in New Zealand and Australia. Thanks to our close relationships with practices, we can connect you directly with opportunities that fit your career goals and lifestyle. Our team has expert knowledge of visa requirements and medical registration processes, ensuring your move is smooth and stress-free. Most importantly, we take the time to understand your personal and professional preferences—so we place you in the right job, in the right location, to match your ambitions.

Moving countries is a big step and thats where we come in.  We will provide

  • Registration support: guiding you through MCNZ applications and document verification

  • GP job matching: connecting you with clinics and practices across NZ

  • Visa & relocation assistance: helping with immigration paperwork and settling your family into life in New Zealand

Why New Zealand?

1. High Demand and Great Opportunities

New Zealand has a consistent shortage of General Practitioners, especially in regional and community-based practices. This means plenty of job security, competitive salaries, and choice of locations.

2. Work-Life Balance

GPs typically work fewer hours than in many other countries, leaving you more time for family, travel, or simply enjoying the outdoors.

3. Stunning Lifestyle

Whether you love beaches, mountains, vineyards, or vibrant cities, New Zealand has it all within easy reach. Many GPs say the lifestyle is the biggest drawcard—safe communities, friendly people, and space to breathe.

4. Smooth Registration Pathway

If you’re from a comparable health system country (like the Netherlands, Denmark, Sweden, Norway, Luxembourg, Finland, or Israel), you can apply through the Comparable Health System pathway. This makes the process quicker and more straightforward than many other international destinations.

5. Family-Friendly Environment

New Zealand is one of the safest and most welcoming countries in the world, with excellent schools and healthcare. It’s a fantastic place to raise a family.

6. Immigration Support

As a GP, you’re on New Zealand’s skill shortage list, which makes the visa process easier—and often faster—for you and your family.

New Zealand offers a strong demand for GPs, competitive salaries, and a lifestyle second to none. From vibrant cities to coastal towns, you can choose the community that fits your life.

We are supporting GPs from the Netherlands, Luxembourg, Denmark, Finland, Sweden, Israel, or Norway, so get in touch to chat about how we can also help you!

 

Read More

Medical Registration Process for NZ

Why you should work as a GP in New Zealand

New Zealand offers a truly unique opportunity to balance your career with an incredible lifestyle. Here are 7 reasons you should choose to relocate

 

Fantastic Work-Life Balance

On average you will work 4 days per week, so work-life balance is fantastic. NZ cities have deputising services or clinics that provide care for patients outside of normal business hours.

Quality Time With Patients

Doctor appointments are often 15 minutes meaning better quality time with your patients.  NZ GP practices are usually private business owned by GPs the GPs working there.

Plenty of  Vacancies

There is an undersupply of GPs training in NZ so there are a lot of vacancies throughout the country, even in the major cities and top holiday spots.

Opportunity To Become Practice Owner

You will often get the opportunity to buy into the practice you are working in. NZ GP practices are usually private businesses owned by the GPs working there.

Streamlines Registration and Visa Process

The MCNZ Registration & Work Visa process can take only  3-6 months. 

Flexible Contract Options

You can work a 12 month contract through to a permanent move.

Residency Pathways

You are likely to be able to apply for permenant residency for you and your family as long as you are aged under 56.  You can apply for your visa whilst still in UK. 

 

AHPRA Specialist Expedited Pathway – Supervision Explained

Supervision –  What to expect

If you’re a specialist international medical graduate (SIMG) coming to Australia through the Expedited Specialist Pathway (ESP), you will need to complete a period of supervised practice.

Here’s a breakdown of what supervision looks like and what you can expect along the way

Why Supervision Matters

Supervision plays an important role in supporting you during your initial months of practice in Australia. Supervision is designed to:

  • Confirm you’re ready to work safely at a specialist level in Australia.

  • Monitor your performance through structured reviews and assessments.

  • Introduce and promote a culture of continuous learning and professional development.

  • Provide constructive feedback on your strengths, areas for development, and strategies for improvement.

Good supervision should feel constructive and supportive, helping you grow your knowledge, skills, and professionalism while adjusting to a new healthcare environment.  Your Supervisor is  there to support you, monitor your progress, and provide honest reports to Ahpra. They also need to flag any concerns if patient safety could be at risk.

 Levels of Supervision

  • First three months → You’ll work under close supervision (Indirect 2). Your supervisor will review your work regularly and be available to step in if needed.
  • Next three months → If things are going well, you may move to remote supervision, where you work more independently, with your supervisor still checking in.

Some SIMGs stay at the same level the whole time — it really depends on the role and how you’re progressing.

Assessments

During your six months of supervised practice, you’ll need to complete:

  • Regular reports from your supervisor.

  • A multisource feedback assessment (feedback from colleagues and peers).

  • At least one extra assessment, like a mini-clinical evaluation (Mini-CEX), direct observation of procedural skills (DOPS), or a case-based discussion (CBD).

You’ll also complete:

  • A Board-approved orientation to the Australian healthcare system.

  • Cultural safety training.

Summary:

Supervised practice under the ESP pathway is about making sure you’re supported while you adapt to practising in a new healthcare system.

It provides structure, ongoing feedback, and a safe space to learn, while giving the Board and the public confidence in your ability to practise as a specialist in Australia.

You may also be interested in

GP Salary Australia: How Much Can You Earn in 2025?

CPD for UK GPs in Australia: A Simplified Guide

Thinking of making the move to Australia as a GP?

One essential part of the transition is understanding how Continuing Professional Development works under the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP). While the Australian system shares similarities with the UK’s, some important changes make it worth a closer look.

Annual CPD Requirements (RACGP)

CPD in Australia operates on a calendar-year basis—trienniums are out. All practising GPs (full-time or part-time) must complete:

50 hours of CPD per year, broken down into:

  • 25 hours: Performance Review & Outcome Measurement

  • 12.5 hours: Educational Activities 

  • 12.5 hours: Free choice.

Additional requirements include PDP and CPR training required every 3 years. They specify mandatory topics must include cultural safety, health equity and professionalism.

What Counts as CPD?

Similarly to the UK, CPD can include seminars and webinars, online courses, clinical education events, case-based discussions clinical audits and QIPs

How GPs Achieve Their CPD Hours

You’re probably already doing a lot that counts toward your 50 hours. Common sources include,  reading clinical updates and discussing cases with peers, attending workshops and conferences, conducting audits or peer reviews within your practice

RACGP CPD Home

Every GP must select a CPD Home—most choose RACGP.

It helps you:

  • Create and manage your Professional Development Plan

  • Track your hours via myCPD

  • Automatically log accredited activities

  • Access quality CPD resources

For GPs on the PEP Specialist Pathway

As part of your application, you must evidence 50 hours of CPD prior to lodging your application and then continue meeting the 50 hours/year requirement under RACGP’s myCPD system

For GPs on AHPRA’s Expedited Specialist Pathway

CPD evidence is not required for application if you meet the recency of practice requirements .  Once practising in Australia, all GPs must meet AHPRA’s CPD requirements, including 50 hours per year and CPD Home affiliation.

Australia’s CPD framework is structured yet flexible. With support from RACGP and the ability to count much of your everyday learning, integrating into the system is straightforward.

Sources:

  1. Medical Board of Australia – Expedited Specialist pathway medicalboard.gov.au
  2. RACGP CPD  – Frequently Asked Questions for GPs on the new CPD standard racgp.org.au