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?

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

Top 10 Tips for GPs relocating to Australia

Here at Transition Medical we get asked many questions from GPs new to their Australia job search. As one of the leading UK GP recruitment agencies we have compiled a brief checklist of things you’ll need to have (and think about)!

1. Primary Medical Degree from a recognised university – MBBS, MB ChB, MD, MB BCh, BM etc

2. Language Skills – All overseas trained GPs are required to demonstrate their English competency. This can be proven if English is your primary language, you completed your schooling from a recognised English-speaking country (UK, Australia, Canada, New Zealand, Ireland, South Africa or USA) and your medical qualifications were completed in English. Without this you will need to have successfully completed PLAB or IELTS.

3. Medical Registration – Full, current and unconditional registration from your current authority (i.e. GMC) and unconditional registration from any previous registering authority. You will need a Certificate of Good Standing from each authority over the last 10 years.

4. GP Qualification – There are two pathways to gain specialist registration as a GP in Australia. UK and Irish trained GPs can apply via the AHPRA Expedited pathway. The RACGP PEP program is also available and leads to Fellowship and specialist registration.  If you hold another qualification please do get in touch to discuss your skills and experience.

5. A Job Offer – To work as a doctor in Australia you need to secure medical registration and a suitable employment visa. The first step of this process is to speak to one of our medical recruitment specialists to find you a great GP job in Perth, Sydney, Melbourne or elsewhere. The demand for skilled workers in Australia is very high and we currently have plenty of GP jobs available across Australia.

6. Location – Australia is a large country with a diverse range of culture and climate. It can be daunting when you start your job search so it is important to take some time doing your research and working out the best spot for you and your family. Emma has lived and travelled extensively around Australia and can help guide you in the right direction.

7. Timescales – The medical recruitment process can take some time to navigate through the various stages. You would be wise to allow adequate time for the Australian registration and visa process, we recommend getting in touch approximately 9 – 12 months prior to you arriving to move through all the key stages.

8. Age doesn’t matter – Medical practices are looking for good all-round GPs, so whether you are newly qualified, mid-way through your career or reaching retirement there will be a GP vacancy available for you.

9. Relocation costs – Moving overseas can be a fairly expensive process; you must factor in the cost of your registration and visa application plus flights, shipping and getting yourself established. Many practices will help towards some of these costs however we would recommend that you have some money set aside to comfortably make the move.

10. Finally – When considering working as a doctor in Australia, it may seem a daunting process and you’ll be weighing up the pros and cons of relocating. Many GPs have already made the move and find the working conditions, increased income potential and, of course, lifestyle to be far superior than the UK. Discover what our GPs have to say and why we’re one of the Best Doctor Recruitment Agencies

Further Reading

Find out What life is like for a GP in Australia

What do GPs earn in Australia?

How to find a great Job

Please do get in touch with one of our medical recruitment specialists if you wish to discuss your GP job search further.

What GPs Stand to Gain from November 2025

Starting 1st November 2025, the Australian Government will implement the most significant changes to bulk billing in decades. With a $7.9 billion investment, all Medicare-eligible patients will become eligible for bulk billing incentives, and practices that bulk bill every patient will receive an additional 12.5% incentive through the Bulk Billing Practice Incentive Program.

What does this mean for GPs?

Every Patient Brings an Incentive

From 1 November 2025, every single Medicare-eligible patient you bulk bill—regardless of age or concession status—will attract a bulk billing incentive.

More Revenue for Every Dollar Earned

Practices that choose to fully bulk bill will receive a 12.5% incentive on all eligible MBS services, shared between GPs and practices. That’s a direct financial boost on top of the Medicare benefit.

Significant Increase in Standard Payments

The Medicare payment for a standard GP consultation at a bulk billing practice will rise from $42.85 to $69.56—nearly 63% more than today.

Practice Growth & Sustainability

With higher Medicare payments and new incentives, practices can:

• Hire more staff

• Upgrade facilities

• Expand services

• Adopt better systems and technology

Stronger Support for Regional GPs

Bulk billing incentives will remain location-weighted, providing even higher incentives in rural and remote areas, up to 190% of metro rates under the Modified Monash Model.

Summary

This reform marks a major turning point for general practice – higher revenue, fairer compensation for GPs, and a stronger, more sustainable future for general practice.

Bulk billing has always been about providing care without financial barriers—but for many GPs, it’s meant lower earnings. That’s about to change.

💼 Earn More. Grow Faster. Provide Better Care.

With increased government funding, bulk billing is not only sustainable—it’s profitable.

We’re currently recruiting GPs for high-quality bulk billing practices!

GP Job Brisbane- High Earning Potential

GP Job Melbourne – 30 Minutes from City

Explore more GP Jobs here:

📧 Email:info@transitionmedical.com
📞 Call: +44 (0) 7983 685 945

Why You Should Consider Working as a GP in Regional Cities Rather Than State Capitals in Australia

Australia offers a range of opportunities for GPs, but the bustling metropolitan hubs like Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane aren’t the only places where careers can thrive. Over the past few years, regional cities across the country have gained increasing attention, not just for their unique charms and lifestyle benefits, but for the professional opportunities they offer as well.

Similar to the UK, there is a large proportion of the population live away from the State capitals; how many of you live in London?

If you’re considering a lifestyle change, here are some compelling reasons why working in a regional city might be the best decision for you.

A Better Work-Life Balance

One of the most attractive features of working in regional cities is the superior work-life balance. Many regional cities enjoy DPA status so there is no long commute to enjoy that beachside lifestyle and after work swim.

In regional cities like Geelong, Ballarat, or Newcastle, you’ll find that the overall pace of life is more relaxed. This slower rhythm allows for more flexible working hours, more leisure time, and a stronger emphasis on family and community, making it ideal for those who value quality of life.

Affordable Housing

The cost of living in major cities has skyrocketed in recent years, particularly when it comes to housing. In Sydney or Melbourne, property prices are at all-time highs.

In regional cities, on the other hand, housing is far more affordable. Whether you’re looking to buy or rent, you’ll find that your dollar stretches further in places like Cairns, Bunbury, or the Central Coast.

DPA Availability

The majority of Regional cities in Australia are DPA, even within central suburbs. Therefore, no requirement to be a certain distance from the city centre. Cities such as Newcastle, Geraldton, Mackay and Townsville offer regional airports with easy links around Australia and to the state capitals.

Lower Cost of Living, More Disposable Income

In addition to affordable housing, other living costs in regional cities tend to be lower compared to state capitals. Groceries, dining out, utilities, and even transport costs can all be cheaper. As a result, you’re more likely to find that your salary goes further.

Closer to Nature and Outdoor Adventures

If you love the outdoors, regional cities offer an unbeatable lifestyle. Australia’s regional areas are home to some of the most stunning landscapes, from coastal regions to national parks, bushland, and mountain ranges. Imagine being able to take a quick hike before work or enjoy a beach day after a long week of work.

Whether it’s the surf breaks on the Gold Coast, the wineries of the Barossa Valley, or the hiking trails of Tasmania, regional areas offer a richness of natural beauty that’s harder to come by in the more urbanised capitals.

Final Thoughts: Embrace the Regional Advantage

While working in a state capital may still seem like the gold standard for many, the benefits of working in regional cities across Australia are becoming impossible to ignore. From better work-life balance and affordable housing to career opportunities and strong community connections, regional Australia offers a lifestyle that’s hard to match in the hustle and bustle of the big cities.

Whether you’re seeking a quieter, more fulfilling lifestyle, or you’re ready to explore new career opportunities outside the capital cities, regional cities in Australia could offer you the fresh start you’ve been looking for.

Take a look at some of our top regional jobs:

Regional town, 1 hour from Sunshine Coast

Regional Victoria, 3 months accommodation

Bunbury, South of Perth, 20K relocation assistance

Please get in touch if you would like to discuss areas around Australia and where would fit best with your lifestyle needs. We’ve travelled and lived in Australia so can provide advice and support from day one of your transition to Australia.

New Pathway Now Open for Specialist IMGs

The new AHPRA expedited specialist pathway is available to specialists with qualifications from the UK, Ireland, and New Zealand.

Following the launch of the new pathway on 21st October, we can now share some further information and help answer some of your questions.

Key Points:

• The cost is significantly cheapest: $2,575 ($2,504 for NSW applicants)
• Supervision: You will be supervised for your first six months in Australia
• Processing times for paperwork to be completed will be reduced to 4-6 months rather than 12 months.
• You will get specialist registration on the Expedited Specialist pathway, but you will not get a fellowship.The Medical Board encourages SIMGs to consider applying for fellowship. When you apply, you can give them permission to share your contact details with the relevant specialist medical college. The college can give you information about the process to get fellowship.
• Moratorium: GPs on this pathway will still be subject to the 10-year moratorium unless they meet exemption criteria
• Income: Medicare have confirmed that they will be changing their guidance in relation to the provider number applications. Doctors applying via the Expedited pathway will be able to apply for a specialist provider number and access full VR Specialist rates.

For those just starting on the PEP Specialist Pathway, switching to the AHPRA Expedited Pathway may expedite your entry to Australia. If you’re further along in the PEP process, staying on that pathway could provide more certainty and the benefit of RACGP Fellowship. We are here to help, so if you would like to discuss your options please get in touch with  our friendly team on info@transitionmedical.com   +44 (0) 7983 685945

A New Era in Healthcare

We are delighted to share further information about an exciting development for the healthcare system paving the way for  Specialist International Medical Graduates (SIMGs). Set to launch on 21 October 2024, the new Expedited Specialist Pathway offers a fast-tracked route for eligible internationally qualified medical specialists to begin treating patients in Australia. It is designed to reduce paperwork as long as their qualifications are on a pre-approved list maintained by the Medical Board of Australia.

Who Is Eligible?

Medical specialists with certain qualifications from the United Kingdom, Ireland, and New Zealand will be the first eligible candidates to apply for the pathway.  Other specialist fields such as anaesthetics, obstetrics and gynaecology, and psychiatry will be added to the accepted qualifications list by December 2024.

How Does the Qualifications Assessment Work?

International qualifications are nominated by Australia’s specialist colleges, such as the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP). These qualifications are then assessed by the Australian Medical Council (AMC) measuring them against an established framework to ensure they are substantially comparable to local qualifications.

To ensure patient safety, all specialists entering via this new pathway must adhere to the same standards as other medical professionals. These include:

•       English language proficiency
•       Criminal history checks
•       Recency of practice requirements

International specialists on this pathway will undergo a six-month supervised period, an orientation to the Australian healthcare system, and mandatory cultural safety education.

Why Was This Pathway Developed?

The Expedited Specialist Pathway is one of the key recommendations from the Kruk Review,  to alleviate pressure on the healthcare workforce by allowing competent, qualified SIMGs to integrate more efficiently into the system.

The traditional Specialist Pathway, which requires individual college assessments, will remain in place for those SIMGs who do not qualify for the Expedited Pathway. Transition arrangements are also available for SIMGs already on the Specialist Pathway who may be eligible for the new expedited process.

What is still to be confirmed?

Although Ahpra have released further information we are still awaiting confirmation of  new pathway fees and processing times. there are also queries around fellowship and how this new system will integrate with Medicare.

Once further guidance is released we will share it on our website.

Conclusion

The introduction of the Expedited Specialist Pathway marks a significant milestone in how international medical specialists are integrated into the Australian healthcare system. By reducing paperwork and streamlining the application processes.

Further reading

AHPRA Release Fast Track Pathway 14th Oct 2024

RACGP PEP Pathway

GP Salary Australia – How much can you earn

When Will the New AHPRA Pathway Be Released?

The Medical Board of Australia (AHPRA) announced in April this year that they would be introducing a new fast-track registration process for internationally trained specialists like GPs, anaesthetists, obstetricians, and psychiatrists.

There has been a news release in September from AHPRA stating that this new pathway, initially prioritising GPs, is on track to open in October, however subject to Ministerial approval.

This is a potentially exciting initiative which aims to address healthcare shortages by recognising and validating overseas qualifications more quickly, allowing these skilled professionals to start contributing to Australian healthcare sooner.

What Does This Mean for GPs?

It’s difficult to predict what this will mean for GPs and how this may change the current pathway to FRACGP specialist registration however it is anticipated that it should be faster and (hopefully) a cheaper pathway.

It is likely that you will continue to have the requirement to verify documents via the AMC verification process however it will remove the need for the RACGP PEP program and its associated costs. This should then also streamline the Medicare provider number application reducing the processing time.

Until the pathway has been released, we don’t have any further information to share however Transition Medical will be one of the first to know and share how this will affect you.

Should I Wait For the New AHPRA Fast Track Pathway or Apply Now?

This depends on your circumstances and timeframes. If you are eager to get to Australia asap, then I would suggest to continue with current RACGP PEP pathway. Until the new fast track pathway has been approved by Ministers there is no set date for release. There is the possibility that this can be delayed.

If you have time to wait until the end of October then we will know what this means and how to proceed.

Background to the fast track pathway

The new AHPRA fast track pathway is being released in line with recommendations from the Kruk Review into health practitioner regulatory settings which was published in December 2023. The report criticised the lengthy and complex process for overseas trained doctors to enter Australia and published recommendations.

On the back of this report, AHPRA removed the need for overseas trained doctors to undergo an in person identity check in December 2023, allowing GPs to apply for all their paperwork whilst overseas and not wait to start work once they had arrived.

Further Reading

AHPRA Fast Track Pathway

AHPRA Update

RACGP PEP Pathway

FAQs Moving to Australia