Wollongong – commonly regarded as Australia’s ‘most liveable’ regional city – is a vibrant, multicultural seaside city located on one of the country’s most attractive coastlines. Less than a 90 minute drive south of Sydney city centre, this New South Wales city offers spectacular beaches, a beautiful harbour, and stunning views of the whole bay from the surrounding hills.

Situated on the shores of the Pacific Ocean in the beautiful Illawarra region, Wollongong is bordered by the Royal National Park to the north and Lake Illawarra to the south. The region has a population of approximately 400,000, and combines a laid-back, coastal environment with cosmopolitan dining, shopping and culture.

Traditional trades in the city include farming, fishing, steel making and coal mining, however, IT, education, tourism and manufacturing are fast becoming the major industries.

Education

The internationally recognised University of Wollongong – formerly part of the University of New South Wales – is located in the city and has previously been awarded Australian University of the Year on more than one occasion.

The city also has a number of primary and secondary schools and offers public, denomination, and independent options.

Activities

In the last 18 months, more than 20 new restaurants and bars have opened in Wollongong, and locals are embracing quirky cafes and hidden bars. The city is gaining an international reputation for excellence in the arts, and many independent galleries have been popping up across the city.

With its warm climate and immaculate beaches (there are 17 patrolled beaches in the region), there are plenty of options for swimming and surfing. The neighbouring national park offers plenty in the way of hiking, rock climbing and mountain biking; and the city also boasts numerous sports facilities and golf courses.

Job Opportunities

Given Wollongong’s popularity, it is perhaps unsurprising that parts of the city do not fall into the required ‘District of Workforce Shortage’ status necessary for overseas trained GPs. However, there are still plenty of DWS practices located in the cities suburbs, allowing the opportunity to live and work in the city.

Check out some of our current vacancies here:

Wollongong – Work with Australia’s leading GP groups 

Wollongong – Earn up to AUD$400k 

Shellharbour – Work on the beautiful shores of Lake Illawarra