The RACGP process is changing.
We have recently been made aware of some changes happening within the RACGP PEP stream. This application is the main pathway for GPs to be able to gain specialist recognition with the Medical Board (AHPRA) in Australia.
The changes will affect the Practice Experience Program Specialist Pathway (PEP) and take effect from the 1st July 2024. The changes will be applicable to both substantially and partially comparable outcomes.
What are the RACGP PEP changes?
The good news is a higher percentage of GPs will be recognised as substantially comparable and the requirements for continuing professional development (CPD) will be simplified. There will be some administrative changes to enable the upload process to be much smoother.
Here is the bad news, unfortunately the process will be more expensive. This will affect GPs going through the process, not starting work in Australia before the 1st December 2024 and those yet to apply.
The program fee will be increased from $8000 to $11,900. This fee is paid during your registration process after your visa has been approved. There will be an additional fee of $300 per year which is paid whilst you are going through your supervision period.
Although, hopefully the changes coming in will make the process more streamlined, an additional cost of $3,9000 is not ideal in an already expensive move.
It is however a one-off fee, and once you are established in Australia, you will have the opportunity to make a much higher income than in the UK so offsetting some of this expense. Many practices also offer relocation assistance to help with some of the costs.
As always, our services are free of charge. We will manage the process for you and provide expert expertise and advice. We are always able to provide guidance and reassurance along the way. To hear how some of our GPs have settled and some video testimonials on our service, take a look at our testimonials page.
If you need any help in your move or want to find out more about how these changes affect you, please do get in touch for more information.
