More Autonomy, Better Lifestyle
Relocating countries as a GP is a big decision, professionally, personally, and for your family. One of the most common queries we hear from is: “What is it actually like once you get there?”
We catch up with Dr Eric a NZ trained GP who we recently supported relocate, and his honest feedback highlights why so many Kiwi GPs are making the move, and thriving.
A Lifestyle That Feels Familiar
One of the biggest surprises? How little culture shock there is.
“Life in Australia feels very similar to New Zealand, from the way people interact to day to day living. Familiar brands like Bunnings, Woolworths, Specsavers and Repco make settling in surprisingly easy. Having familiar stores really makes it easier to adjust.”
Climate: A Big Change, But a Positive One
Dr Eric moved to WA, where 40 degree days are real. But he says dry heat makes a huge difference, and the warmer climate has actually meant more time outdoors for him and the whole family.
“Where it really shines is it offers a LOT for families (covered playgrounds, pools, adventure parks, many museeums, events, markets, animal parks, indoor activities, extracurricular classes etc) also offers a lot for adults like swimming, hiking, biking, indoor markets, concerts etc. Very easy to find things to do!”
Working as a GP: More Autonomy, More Variety
From a clinical perspective, the transition has been very positive.
At the moment Eric spends around 15 minutes per patient, seeing 28–30 patients per day, with full autonomy over appointment length and workload. “I have full autonomy over how many patients I see and how long I see them for. My employer is very flexible.”
For context, many experienced Australian GPs see 60 patients per day, often with shorter consults. With time, system familiarity, and strong nursing support, shorter consults (10 minutes) become far more manageable.
The Relocation Process: Why Support Matters
“I wouldn’t have known where to start or who to contact. I would have stressed constantly about whether I was completing forms correctly.
Working with Transition Medical made the process clearer, faster, and far less stressful. The overall timeframe was shorter than initially expected, which was a welcome surprise”
Timesframes for UK Trained GPs is similar, just have the additional visa requirement.
Practical Advice for NZ GPs Considering the Move
Some tips Eric would like to share:
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Get key documents certified by a Justice of the Peace before leaving NZ
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Australia really does require “100 points of ID” for everything
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Certify your partner’s documents at the same time (passport, driver’s licence)
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This makes setting up essentials like PRODA, Medicare, and driver’s licences much easier
“The less you stress about peripheral admin, the sooner you can get to work, and work in peace.”
If you’ve been considering the move but unsure where to start, the right support can make all the difference, turning what feels daunting into a confident, well planned step forward.
Further reading
