Author: emma

Are You a Doctor Considering Relocating to Australia or New Zealand?

Posted on by emma

Are you a skilled and ambitious doctor contemplating relocation to Australia or New Zealand? Australia and New Zealand are appealing due to their vibrant culture, great weather, excellent quality of life, and a thriving healthcare system.

However, the prospect of relocating as a doctor can be daunting, leaving you uncertain about where to start. This is where Transition Medical come in to help. We provide invaluable insights and practical tips to ensure a seamless transition to your new professional and personal life in Australia or New Zealand.

Understanding the Healthcare Landscape

Both countries boast world-class healthcare systems, and as a doctor, you will play a pivotal role in contributing to its excellence. Before making the move, you need to familiarise yourself with the working patterns and registration requirements.

It’s important to consider where you would like to work, what type of environment you thrive in and importantly, what lifestyle are you looking for? Having lived and worked down under, we can provide advice and guidance to help you make your decision.

Navigating the Medical Registration Process

Securing registration is a crucial step for practicing medicine. As a doctor you will be Licenced under the NZ Medical Council or AHPRA however there are many steps to take to gain this registration. We understand all the intricacies of the registration paperwork from submitting necessary documents to understanding English language requirements and the complex world of College memberships. We will case manage your paperwork and hold a comprehensive understanding of everything you need to do.

Doctor Job Opportunities

Australia and New Zealand offers diverse GP job opportunities and Radiology jobs for medical professionals, with demand across various specialties and regions. From metropolitan areas to regional hubs and remote positions,  discover the unique advantages each location offers for your professional growth and personal lifestyle preferences.

Cultural and Lifestyle Considerations

Relocating to a new country involves more than just a change in profession; it’s a lifestyle shift. Familiarise yourself with the way of life, cultural nuances, and the local healthcare ethos. Get excited about your new work-life balance and recreational activities on offer.

Navigating Doctor Visa Processes

A seamless visa application process is crucial for a smooth relocation. At Transition Medical, our Licenced Immigration Advisors will provide specialist advice and assistance to your unique situation. We will assist you in the application for both temporary and permanent residency visas. Get in touch for more information.

Community Integration and Support Networks

Building a support network is vital for a successful relocation. Connecting with fellow healthcare professionals who have already made the move can offer valuable first hand insights into the challenges and triumphs of living and working in Australia or New Zealand. As part of your relocation we can put you in touch with other doctors who have successfully made the move.

Relocating as a doctor is an exciting and rewarding venture, but it requires careful planning and preparation. We are here to help you make the move; from deciding where to relocate to which practice to join and navigating the complex paperwork, we are on hand all the way. Arrange a call back to find out more.

Further Reading

What do Radiologists Earn in New Zealand

Australian GP Calculator

Moving your Family Pet Overseas

How to Give Yourself the Best Chance of Finding your Dream Job

 

 

 

Expanding Horizons: Continuing Medical Education Opportunities for GPs in New Zealand

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Medical Education Opportunities for GPs in New Zealand

Introduction

Embarking on your journey to move to  New Zealand as a GP allows you the opportunity for continuous learning and an enriching travel experience. For GPs seeking to broaden their knowledge and skills, New Zealand offers extensive opportunities to continue your learning opportunities. In this blog, we’ll explore the diverse range of educational experiences awaiting GPs in the Land of the Long White Cloud.

Conferences

New Zealand hosts a range of medical conferences throughout the year. These events cover a wide spectrum of topics, from updates in primary care to specialised areas such as rural medicine, mental health, and indigenous health. Notable conferences like the New Zealand Medical Association (NZMA) Annual Conference provide a platform for networking, idea exchange, and exposure to the latest research.

Workshops and Training Programs:

Participating in workshops and training programs is an excellent way to acquire practical skills and keep abreast of advancements in the field. Organisations like the Royal New Zealand College of General Practitioners (RNZCGP) often organise workshops on clinical procedures, communication skills, and emerging healthcare technologies.

E-Learning Platforms:

In the digital age, accessibility to education is key. Numerous e-learning platforms offer GPs the flexibility to enhance their knowledge remotely. The New Zealand Medical Journal (NZMJ) and other medical institutions provide online courses covering a wide range of topics, enabling GPs to learn at their own pace.

Collaboration and Peer Learning:

Peer learning is a powerful tool for professional development. Collaborative initiatives, such as clinical case discussions, journal clubs, and collaborative research projects, foster a culture of shared learning among GPs. The RNZCGP often facilitates peer learning opportunities for practitioners across the country.

Cultural Competency Training:

Given New Zealand’s diverse population, cultural competency is a crucial aspect of providing effective healthcare. Specialised CME programs focus on enhancing cultural awareness and sensitivity, ensuring that GPs can better navigate the unique healthcare needs of different communities, including the Māori and Pacific Islander populations.

International Medical Conventions:

For GPs with a global perspective, New Zealand serves as an excellent location for international medical conventions. These events attract speakers and delegates from around the world, providing a unique opportunity to gain insights into global healthcare trends, best practices, and innovations.

Conclusion:

In the heart of breathtaking landscapes and vibrant communities, New Zealand not only offers a fulfilling cultural experience but also a wealth of CME opportunities for general practitioners. Whether you prefer traditional conferences, hands-on workshops, or the convenience of online learning, New Zealand’s commitment to medical education ensures that GPs can continuously evolve and contribute to the well-being of their patients.

So, for GPs seeking to combine professional growth with the adventure of a lifetime, New Zealand beckons with boundless opportunities for lifelong learning.

If you’d like to find out more about how New Zealand can offer the lifestyle you’re looking for please get in touch with one of our team.

Further Reading

Straight to Residence Visa NZ

Highly Paid South Island Job

 

RACGP Updates : Streamlining the process

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RACGP Updates for UK GPs

The Royal College of GPs in Australia (RACGP) has made a commitment to ensuring the process of overseas trained GPs is simplified. This is to attract and increase the number of GPs working in GP jobs across Australia.

The possible changes being considered are off the back of the Independent review of overseas health practitioners known as the KRUK report. The results of which are due to be released at some point before the end of the year.

The measures being considered include:

  • simplifying and amending comparability assessments
  • reducing the training and skills comparability scores required
  • simplifying and amending comparability assessments
  • widening the type of training considered applicable
  • removing the multi-source feedback requirement
  • removing the requirement for a reflective essay
  • reducing the minimum time on the Specialist Pathway from six to three months.

Current Changes Implemented

We are thrilled to announce that commencing 22 November 2023, the RACGP has made significant amendments to the Comparability Assessment.

Continued Professional Development (CPD):

There were previous restrictions on number of hours of CPD completed on any specific period which has now been removed.

  • Any 50 hours of CPD completed in the 12 months preceding the Comparability Assessment application will now be eligible for assessment.
  • Previous restrictions on the maximum hours per day (10 hours) and the maximum hours in each CPD area (20 hours) have been removed.
  • Applicants are still required to provide detailed evidence to support their CPD in required number of hours

Clinical Case Analyses (CCA):

The mandatory submission of 10 Clinical Case Analyses (CCA) is no longer required. This is a significant time saving to all GPs going through the PEP pathway. Any new applications will no longer need to provide these case studies.

These adjustments to the Comparability Assessment process for the PEP Specialist Stream represent a positive stride towards improving accessibility for medical professionals seeking recognition in the field.

Overall these are incredibly positive and show that the Royal College of GPs are trying to improve the onboarding process for overseas trained GPs. We hope that this will reduce the burden of administration for your move and paves the way for further positive updates.

Transition Medical will manage the medical registration and visa process for you free of charge. If you have any questions on how these changes will effect your application then please do get in touch.

Further Reading

Navigating the PEP process

Tax System for GPs working in Australia

How to prepare to move to Australia

 

Navigating the RACGP PEP Process

Posted on by emma

A Comprehensive Guide for GPs relocating to Australia

Embarking on a career as a General Practitioner (GP) in Australia is a rewarding journey, but it requires a thorough understanding of the qualifications and processes involved.

This is where Transition Medical come in. We are experts in providing critical advices and assistance in processing GP’s applications to a successful outcome. We provide our help at no charge to you!

About the PEP Program

The Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP) offers the Practice Experience Program (PEP) for international medical graduates (IMGs) seeking recognition as a GP in Australia. In this blog, we will delve into the RACGP PEP process, providing you with valuable insights into the steps, challenges, and opportunities that lie ahead.

Understanding the RACGP PEP:

 The RACGP PEP is designed for Specialist GPs who hold a recognised medical degree and a comparable GP qualification.

The program aims to assess and develop the necessary skills and knowledge required for practice in the Australian healthcare system.

Key Steps in the PEP Process:

  • Comparability Assessment
  • Job Approval Check
  • Medicare Provider Number Application
  • Work Based Assessment
  • Awarded Fellowship

Which Documents Do You Need?

The RACGP process is a comprehensive process and best completed with Transition Medical’s guidance. Here are examples of what is required:

  • Medical degree, GP certificates, identity documents
  • Evidence of 50 hours CPD in the last 12 months
  • 10 Completed Clinical case studies
  • Letters of support from your recent GP practices

At first glance it may seem quite a lot of paperwork however we break this down for you and following our instructions, it will be completed with minimal inconvenience.

Transition Medical have completed over 40 RACGP successful PEP applications.

How Long does it Take?

The PEP program takes in total around 24 weeks. The medical registration and visa pathway to work in Australia will take approximately 9 months and we suggest getting in touch 12 months before you want to be in Australia.

Conclusion

The RACGP PEP process is a comprehensive and rigorous pathway for international medical graduates aspiring to become General Practitioners in Australia. While it presents its share of challenges, successful completion opens doors to a fulfilling career in General Practice in Australia.

Transition Medical will guide you through the application and make it as smooth as possible to allow you to focus on the excitement of your relocation journey.

Further Reading

Australia GP Salary

Living in Perth, Australia

 

 

Australian Doctor Visa questions answered

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Australia Doctor Visa Temporary and PR Visa Options Explained

An important question and consideration when you’re planning to move abroad is which Australia Doctor visa to apply for and if you are planning a permanent move, which PR option is right for you.

Our immigration advisers have put together some information below to help guide you. Please do get in touch to discuss your specific circumstances.

What are my GP Visa options?

As a General Practitioner (GP) you are eligible to move to Australia on either a temporary visa or on a permanent basis as your occupation is currently on the Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL). Common to all pathways is the requirement that applicants meet the Skill, Health and Character requirements. In the case of GPs, the Skill requirement is evidenced by successful registration with the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA). To be able to hold AHPRA registration, you first need to have signed an agreement with a practice in Australia and completed your RACGP PEP comparability assessment.

Permanent Residency Applications

There are several visa pathways to achieving the objective of Permanent Residency (PR). In this short article, we’ll be explaining the pathways in a straightforward way to help you choose the most appropriate option.

In simple terms, there are 2 primary pathways to Permanent Residency which we’ll discuss today. The Skilled Independent visa (sub class 189) which is a points-tested stream and the Employer Sponsored pathway (subclass 186).

The Temporary Resident Visa (Temporary Skill Shortage Visa Subclass 482) 

This is the most common visa to relocate to Australia as a GP. This 482 visa can be granted for up to 4 years.

From a practical perspective GPs can enter Australia much faster by applying for the 482, rather than by applying from the UK for the permanent visa (186). At the time of writing, 90% of applications are assessed in 11 weeks. Current GPs going through the process, we see visa approval in as little as 6 – 8 weeks.

Under the 482-visa, as a GP you can either be employed on a full-time employment contract or you can be an independent sub-contractor and provide your services to the employer on an hourly / weekly pay rate or profit share arrangement. The majority of our GP Jobs are independent contractor agreements offering a percentage of weekly billings.

The 482 visa provides temporary residency status. As the holder of a 482 visa you are free to travel to and from Australia, your family can accompany you and your spouse is free to work or study without restriction. If you have been living in the UK prior to your move, you will be entitled to Medicare health services once enrolled. Until this time when you arrive in Australia, you will need to hold Private health cover.

Direct Entry Pathway (186 Visa only)

This visa allows skilled workers, who are nominated by their employer, work and live in Australia permanently. At time of writing, he processing time for 90% of visas is 54 weeks. Our Immigration Advisor suggests that it may be around 6 months for a UK doctor to gain approval. A recent UK trained GP had her 186 visa approval in 10 weeks.

Many of our GP practices are happy to provide this sponsorship to allow you to work in Australia on a permanent basis. You should be under 45 to apply for this visa, however there are exemptions to this if you meet this if you have previously held a 482 visa, have been working for the nominating employer for the previous 3 years and can meet the income threshold.

Skilled Independent visa (subclass 189)

This is a points-based option for skilled workers. For this application, you need to submit an expression of interest. The eligibility criteria area; you must have a relevant occupation and complete a suitable skills assessment for this. The Skill requirement will again be evidenced by successful registration with the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA).

You will be required to meet the points test pass mark of 65 and be under 45 years old at the time you are invited to apply. In order to gain enough points, most GPs are required to sit an IELTS English language test.

Further Reading:

PR 189 Skilled Independent Visa

PR 186 Employer Sponsored Visa

For further information or to discuss your circumstances directly please get in touch with one of the team here at Transition Medical. Richard, our Specialist Immigration Advisor and Lawyer is on hand to help.

Further Reading on our blog

Australian Education system

Find out more about working as a GP in Australia

Benefits of working as a GP in Australia

 

Straight to Residence visa for NZ

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Can I get a New Zealand Straight to Residence Visa as a GP or Radiologist?

What are the options for residence in New Zealand?

New Zealand is a popular destination for doctors looking to relocate overseas. The country offers a high quality of life, excellent healthcare system, and strong job market.

Doctors are in high demand in New Zealand, and the government is keen to attract more GPs to the country.

There are 3 skills-based residence pathways that require you to have a job offer in order to apply:

  • The Skilled Migrant Category residence pathway
  • The Green List pathway (Straight to Residence and Work to Residence)
  • The Sector Agreement residence pathway (Care Workforce and Transport Sector Work to Residence)

We will talk about the Straight to Residence Visa in this blog.

Green List Straight to Residence Visa

One of the most popular visa options for GPs and Radiologists moving to New Zealand is the Straight to Residence Visa. You can apply for the Straight to Residence Visa from either New Zealand or overseas, and, unlike most of the other Skilled Visa options, there is no requirement to work in New Zealand before applying.

This visa allows you to live, work, and study in New Zealand, and to include your partner and dependent children in your application.

To be eligible for the Straight to Residence Visa, you must:

  • Have a full-time job offer (at least 30 hours per week) from an accredited employer, for a role on Tier 1 of the Green List
  • Be paid at least the New Zealand median wage (currently NZ$29.66 per hour)
  • Meet the requirements of the Green List for your role
  • Be aged 55 or younger
  • Meet the English language requirements
  • Meet the health and character requirements for residence

Meeting the requirements of the Green List

The role of a GP or Radiologist is included in Tier 1 of the Green List.

In order to meet the requirements of the Green List, a GP or Radiologist will need to have New Zealand provisional general, general, provisional vocational, vocational or special purpose locum tenens registration with the Medical Council of New Zealand (or a letter of eligibility for one of these forms of registration issued by the Medical Council of New Zealand).

Meeting English Language requirements

The principal applicant, their partner, and any dependent children aged 16 or over will need to meet a minimum standard of English language.

There are a number of ways that this can be demonstrated, which can include your country of citizenship, your qualifications or by taking an English Language Test (such as IELTS).

The best way to understand how you can meet the English Language requirements (and the other eligibility requirements for this visa) is to talk to a Licensed Immigration Adviser. Our Immigration Advisor, Nicola, will be able to give you guidance on the requirements of the visa and what route is best for you and your family.

How long does it take to get a visa for NZ?

Visa applications are generally allocated and processed in the order they are received by Immigration New Zealand. However, a new priority processing order has been introduced to recognise the importance of Tier 1 Green List roles.

Straight to Residence Visa applications have been given the highest priority (along with certain high paid roles and well qualified Skilled Migrant applicants). This means that immigration officers will assess these applications before other skilled residence applications.

For more information on the Straight to Residency visa, please do get in touch with our team. We’ll need to secure you a GP or Radiology job first and Nicola will guide you through the process for the most appropriate visa for you.

More information on Nicola’s services to GPs or Radiologists relocating to New Zealand. 

See our GP jobs for New Zealand

See our Radiology Jobs for New Zealand

What do Radiologists Earn in New Zealand?

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If you’re thinking about working as a Radiologist in New Zealand, then you may be enticed by the wonderful work – life balance offered. NZ is a truly stunning country offering outdoor adventures and beautiful beaches. It is a fantastic place to live with a relaxed pace of life.

You may also be thinking about the work – life balance which Radiologists in New Zealand enjoy and want to find out more about what life is like. You will also be thinking about what the Radiologist salary is in New Zealand. We’ve put together some more information in the blog to answer some of your questions.

Working as a Radiologist in New Zealand

New Zealand is located in the South Pacific with a relatively small population of 4.5 million. The country has an excellent public health care system with opportunities for Radiologists to join teams across the country. Whether you are looking for a job close to sunny beaches, in central Wellington or more rural near mountains and glaziers then we have the job for you.

Radiologist Salary NZ

As a Radiologist working in New Zealand, you can work in either a Government hospital setting or private company. We will outline the salaries offered at both.

Health Boards New Zealand

The District Health Boards employ doctors using the MECA agreement. Your Radiologist salary in New Zealand will be dependant and on a 15 step banding goes up to $250,560. If required to do on-call there are on-call allowances, usually as a percentage of your salary.

The benefits packages offered are excellent. You will be offered a relocation package which is negotiated with the hospital. This can include costs such as flights, removal costs, accommodation and car hire. You will also be reimbursed for your Annual Practicing Certificate which is the equivalent of your GMC registration. You may also be offered College or Medical Indemnity insurance reimbursed. For those on a Permanent visa, there are contributions to your Kiwi Saver which is the NZ Pension scheme.

Benefits will vary from hospital to hospital and your salary will be dependent on the level of experience you hold.

Private Radiology Providers

Transition Medical work with one of the largest providers of Radiology services in New Zealand.  Radiologist salaries for the group are highly competitive, up to $400K NZD. You will also be offered health insurance and your medical registration and professional indemnity costs paid.

As an overseas applicant, you will also be offered relocation assistance to help with your moving costs.

Working in New Zealand will offer you a superb quality of life whilst earning a good income. We have Radiology jobs in New Zealand for either shorter term and permanent contracts. Take a look at our current jobs or get in touch for more information.

Further Reading

Working as a Radiologist in New Zealand

‘Fast Track’ residency in New Zealand for Radiologists

Take a look at Radiology jobs

Australian GP Salary Calculator

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Australian GP Salary Calculator

When relocating as a GP to Australia, you will want to find out how much you get paid as a GP and what your GP income will be. We’ve given a 2023 update on GP salaries and a link to a useful calculator.

How much do GPs earn in Australia?

First of all, we should say that GPs in Australia don’t earn a ‘salary’ rather get paid via percentage of billings for the work that they do. In Australia GPs are valued healthcare professionals and are paid accordingly.

Your Australian GP salary will vary depending on factors such as how you want to set up your practice i.e. how many hours you want to work and how many patients you wish to see, the location and practice set up.

In the majority of cases, GPs relocating from the UK earn at least the same for doing less hours per week. Realistic GP earnings working in a mixed billing practice in Australia are $300K upwards (£160k)

GP Income Calculator

The RACGP have provided an income calculator where you can input how much you want to earn and how many sessions and patients you want to see. This will give you an indication of how much you will earn working in Australia.

One of our GP clients in Adelaide from the UK is currently working as a GP has used the calculator and finds it to be accurate and a useful tool to use.

Examples:

Your desired income is $300,000 per year at 70% billings

  • 8 sessions per week seeing 4 patients per hour with 6 weeks annual leave per year
  • You annual gross billings (the amount before the percentage is taken off) would be $428,571 with the fee for each patient $72.79.

Your desired income is $400,000 per year at 70% billings

  • 8 sessions per week seeing 5 patients per hour with 6 weeks annual leave per year
  • Your annual gross billings (the amount before the percentage is taken off) would be $571,429 with the fee for each patient $77.64.

How to maximise Australian GP income

We find most UK GPs are relocating to Australia for quality of life, less stress and a better work – life balance. Coupled with the amazing weather and outdoor lifestyle it is a tempting county to live.

Once established, GPs find that their income is higher than back in the UK! “People are friendly, you see fewer patients and have longer appointment times for more pay”

If you are looking to maximise your income whilst you’re in Australia then there a few ways to do this:

Number of hours worked and patients seen

It goes without saying that you are going to make a higher income working 5 days than two. There are many factors but providing great patient care, being available and building a loyal patient base will ensure you have a regular excellent income

Complex Consultations

Some more complex consultations will attract a higher fee so any areas such as minor surgery, dermatology, mental health and chronic care plans will increase your income potential.

Work out of hours

Private consultation fees and Medicare rebates are generally higher at the weekends and evenings. Practices are free to charge what they deem appropriate so there tends to be an uplift on consult fee for services provided out of hours. Out of hours for Medicare rebates are before 8am or after 6pm on a weekday, after 12noon on Saturday and all day Sunday.

Further Reading:

GP Income Calculator

Day in the Life of a GP in Australia

Australian Tax System

Living in Perth, Australia

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Life in Perth as a GP in Australia

Perth is one of the most popular cities in Australia for GPs to relocate to and it’s easy to see why! Find out more in our blog about life in Perth and more about our GP jobs in Perth and surrounds.

  • Perth is the thriving capital of Western Australia and the state’s largest city.
  • It is a laid back, very liveable city with wonderful weather and a relaxed feel.
  • With a population of almost 2 million it is the 4th largest city in Australia.
  • Perth is the 12th most liveable city in the world (Economist Intelligence Unit’s Global Liveability Index 2023)

The city runs alongside the Indian Ocean on the west coast and the distance from north to south is about 100km. The many suburbs based along the beautiful coastline have easy access to stunning beaches. The Swan River providing lots of water activities runs through the city and has Darling Ranges for stunning scenery, walking and bike trails, to the west.  The city centre of Perth is only a short 12km drive to the ocean.

Perth is an easy city to get around. The International airport is 30 minutes to the city by car. It is well serviced by public transport with great train and bus links around the Perth including the free city CAT bus. There is also a ferry terminal only 10 minutes’ walk from the city centre which crosses the Swan River with other ferry services providing trips out to the popular Rottnest Island.

Perth Time Zone

Australia is a big country with 3 separate time zones.  As Perth is the furthest west of all the cities, it is the closest to the UK, only 8 hours ahead of the UK and only 7 hours during British Summer time. Unlike some of the other states, Western Australia doesn’t practice Daylight Saving Time.

If you’re looking to have a shorter journey home or have family living in Asia and want to be closer, this is the perfect location.

Perth Climate

Perth is the sunniest capital city in Australia with an average of 8 hours sunshine daily. It has a mixture of Californian and Mediterranean climates with mild winters and hot dry summers. The summer months run from December to February and the temperature averages around 29 degrees during the day and 17 overnight.  The temperature can reach much higher temperatures however the hot days are cooled by the ‘Freemantle doctor’ which is a strong sea breeze that blows in for the ocean which provides relief and is excellent for windsurfing and sailing on the Swan river.

The winter months in Perth are from June to August.  These are mild with an average temperature of 18 degrees during the day and around 9 overnight. The wettest month is July which sees quite a bit of rainfall which comes down quite quickly and in many instances passes to be followed by sunny periods. It rarely gets cold enough for snow to fall or frost to form.

Combine the warm weather and beautiful beaches it is easy to see why so many people enjoy the outdoor lifestyle of Western Australia. All year round the residents of Perth enjoy the beautiful sandy beaches along the coast line, and on hot days, cooling down in the clean blue Indian Ocean.

Perth Beaches

Situated on the Indian Ocean, Perth has some of Australia’s finest beaches, most of which are easily accessible by car or bus. Enjoy surfing, swimming, scuba diving and fishing within a 20 minute drive of the Central Business District (CBD). For swimming, some great options are Cottesloe, Swanbourne, City Beach, Floreat Beach and Scarborough Beach. For those who want to try surfing, beaches such as Trigg, to the north of Scarborough, are ideal.

Kings Park and Botanic Gardens

Kings Park is a must see and has an amazing view of Perth City and the Swan River.  With 400 hectares of tranquil parkland, bushland and botanic gardens interlaced with trails and pathways Kings Park gives you the chance to experience Australian flora and fauna without leaving the city.  Great for kids to connect with nature with a playground and café on site.

Fremantle

Visit fabulous Fremantle, located on the coast just 30 minutes south of Perth CBD.  You can enjoy a coffee on the famous ‘Cappuccino strip’, take a stroll through the Fremantle markets, go underground on the Fremantle Prison Tunnel Tour or enjoy fish and chips down on Fisherman’s Wharf. Weekends are a great time to visit Fremantle with many festivals and events hosted in this great city.

Perth Housing and Schools

www.realestate.com.au
www.domain.com.au
http://www.australianschoolsdirectory.com.au/
http://www.australia.gov.au/topics/education-and-training/school-education
http://www.privateschoolsdirectory.com.au/

Perth for Kids

With such a great climate, entertaining kids in Perth is made much easier – visits to the beach or the park can be a spur of the moment decision and with better weather means planned days out can be enjoyed rather than it being a wash out.

Top 10 Family Attractions

Family Days Out

Hillarys Boat Harbour: A brilliant family destination only 30 minutes from the Perth CBD, Hillarys Boat Harbour is a great place to spend the day. Whether you are keen on swimming, boating, fishing, shopping or dining in cafes or restaurants, Hillarys has everything you need. For the little kids there is a lovely, cosy, beach with play equipment right on the sand. Bigger kids can enjoy waterslides, trampolines, minigolf and circus rides at The Great Escape. Parents can join right in or choose to relax at one of the cafes nearby.

Around Perth

Rottnest Island
Just 19 km off the coast of Perth, just under a 30 minute ferry ride from Perth city centre or Fremantle is the sunny holiday island of Rottnest.   Blessed with some of the world’s finest beaches and pristine bays, Rottnest Island is Western Australia’s very own island getaway.

There are no cars on the island so a popular way to get around is by bike, it is a small island making it easy to explore with a number of great trails to follow.  Not surprisingly, water activities play a major role in island life – from snorkelling and diving to fishing, surfing, boating, kayaking, sailing and swimming!

Margaret River
A 3 hour drive south of Perth is the Margaret river region.  This is an area renowned for its wine production and first class restaurants. You’ll be spoilt for choice with over 100 wineries plus many fine restaurants, boutique breweries, art galleries and fresh produce, from divine cheeses to chocolate.

Margaret River is also a top surfing destination holding yearly surfing competitions, and the town has evolved from a relaxed surfing town to a popular base to enjoy the areas flavours and spectacular scenery.The Swan Valley The Swan Valley is a 30 minute drive from central Perth. In the region you will find wildlife and historical parks, bushland, arts and crafts and several wineries. The Swan Valley is also breathtakingly beautiful in wild flower season.

More information on our Perth vacancies

Further Reading

Read our blog on Australian School Fees

Read our blog on GP Salaries in Australia

Perth GP Jobs

8 Benefits for GPs moving to New Zealand

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We have highlighted 8 key benefits to working as a GP in New Zealand

GP Registration Eligibility 

The New Zealand Medical Council recognise GP training from the UK and Ireland. Unlike Australia, it doesn’t alter your registration pathway if you don’t have the MRCGP qualification making it easier to find a post if you don’t have it. If you haven’t completed your GP training in the UK or Ireland then you are eligible if you have a minimum of 33 months recent GP experience from one of the 24 comparable countries.

The Medical Registration and NZ Visa process is relatively quick

It only takes approximately 2 – 3 months from start to finish. We’ll find you the job first and once the contract has been signed guide you through the registration and visa applications. We have a Specialist Immigration Advisor regulated by the Immigration Advisers Authority New Zealand to manage the visa for you and your family. There are options for temporary and permanent work visas.

Ideal opportunity to try it out

Due to the ease and time taken for the registration process, it’s much easier to secure a shorter GP locum contracts from 12 months. This allows you to have a working holiday or a taster before committing to a permanent position.

No restrictions on where you can work

Unlike Australia where you have to work in a District of Workforce shortage, New Zealand doesn’t have the same restrictions allowing us to find you a GP job in any practice and any location.

More time with patients

The majority of practices have standard 15 minute appointment times – this means less stress and a less intense working schedule. Better for patients and doctors!

Low Income tax rate 

Most of your salary in New Zealand will be taxed at 33% with only over $180k per annum being taxed at 39%. There is no National Insurance payments and tax of goods and services is only 15%.

Work / Life balance

General practice is taken seriously however time outside of work is high priority. Commuting isn’t the same headache as it is in the UK and you’re never far away from a beach or national park.

Finally – New Zealand has outstanding natural beauty and a fantastic outdoor lifestyle

There is a nationwide passion for sports and outdoor activities and the South Island is the birthplace of adventure sports like bungee jumping and skydiving. There is a great climate, offering more sunshine hours and alfresco living!

If you wish to discuss further, please do get in touch with our GP recruitment specialists or view our GP jobs page.

Further Reading

Find out what it’s like to work as a GP in New Zealand in our recent blog post and GP guide

Is there an age limit for GPs in New Zealand?

Cost of living as a doctor in New Zealand