Category: Blog

CPD for UK GPs in Australia: A Simplified Guide

Posted on by emma

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

New Opportunities for IMGs: Chile, Luxembourg & Croatia Now Recognised by MCNZ

Posted on by emma

New Countries Added to the Comparable Health Systems List – And We’re Here to Help

If you’re a doctor working in Chile, Luxembourg, or Croatia, your pathway to practising medicine in New Zealand just became more accessible.

The Medical Council of New Zealand (MCNZ) has officially added these countries to its list of comparable health systems, joining recent additions Japan and South Korea. This means your clinical experience can now count toward applying for provisional general registration through the Comparable Health System (CHS) pathway.

MCNZ now recognises 29 countries as having health systems comparable to New Zealand’s. If you’ve been practising in any of these countries and meet the eligibility criteria, you could be only a few steps away from joining New Zealand’s healthcare workforce.

How can we Help?

As a recruitment company dedicated to placing skilled IMGs in New Zealand general practice roles, we provide:

  • Access to GP roles across the country
  • Step-by-step guidance through the registration process
  • Support with primary source verification (EPIC)
  • Help coordinating supervision requirements with your future employer

Ready to Make the Move?

If you’re a doctor with recent experience in Chile, Luxembourg, Croatia — or any of the 29 approved comparable health systems — now is the time to explore your next career chapter in New Zealand. Our experienced team is ready to walk beside you from registration to relocation.

GP Salary Australia: How Much Can You Earn in 2025?

Posted on by emma

You may be thinking about relocating to Australia and want to know more about your GP salary in Australia. Here we give you a 2025 breakdown of what your income could be.

GPs in Australia generally earn a good income and can afford a comfortable lifestyle. In the majority of cases, GPs relocating from the UK earn at least the same for doing fewer hours per week. One of our doctors has described working in Australia

‘Life in Australia – people are friendly, you see fewer patients and have longer appointment times for more pay.’

Click here to see Emma’s video testimonial about life as a GP in Australia.

Australia GP Salary 2025

Figures from a 2025 industry report, state that GPs average around $360K – $380K AUD. This figure reflects a full  time role working more than 32 hours per week.

Your GP salary in Australia will be variable dependant on a number of factors including:

  • The total hours you work
  • The number of patients you see
  • The percentage you receive
  • How many weeks annual leave you take
  • The complexity of the patient consultation

General practices in Australia operate as private businesses, either owned by a single GP, GP Partners or larger companies. The majority of practices operate as mixed billing where they see a mix of patients who are privately billed or bulk billed through Medicare.

Usually, patients who are under 16, over 65 and hold health cards are bulk billed and everyone else is private billed. The standard consultation fee for the practice will remain the same when the patient is bulk billed and may vary between practices when privately billed. Recent Medicare statistics report that in the year 2022 – 2023, 51.7% of patients are routinely bulk billed, 25.6% usually bulk billed, 12.2% sometimes bulk billed and 10.5% never bulk billed.

How much will I earn as a GP in Australia?

As we’ve discussed, the average income reported is around $360K per year. This figure will be dependent on the above factors and may be more or less dependent on the way you work. Some of our practices have GPs there earning more than $500K per year and some earning $300K to work a 3 day week. It’s up to you!

Please do get in touch with one of our team to find out more about your move to Australia.

Further Reading

Australia’s Game- Changing Reforms to Bulk Billing

GP Salary Calculator

A Radiologist’s Journey: From Derbyshire to the Bay of Plenty

Posted on by emma

Let me take you through a day in my life and share why this move has been one of the best decisions I’ve made.

What happens when a seasoned UK Radiologist trades the overcast skies of Derbyshire for sunlit mornings on New Zealand’s North Island? In this blog, Dr. Christopher Squirrell shares his journey from life as a UK Radiologist to a fulfilling role in New Zealand.

With a mix of professional insight, personal reflection, and practical advice, this  is a must-read for medical professionals contemplating a career abroad—and a different kind of life altogether.

A Different Kind of Start to the Day

It’s 7:45 am and I’m walking through the hospital’s front doors, long black coffee in hand, after a breezy, stress-free commute. Even in the winter months, the weather is mild and uplifting. The mornings are peaceful—no relentless traffic, no grey drizzle. Just space to breathe, think, and begin the day with positivity.
The Radiology Department’s reception team greets me warmly, and I head to the Consultant (SMO) reporting hub, ready to log on by 8:00 am. Here in New Zealand, a typical full-time role consists of four ten-hour days. That extra day off each week? A complete game-changer for work-life balance.

Collaboration at Its Best

As a Diagnostic and Interventional Radiologist, my weeks include a blend of reporting sessions and interventional lists. What’s unique here is the level of collaboration and supervision. Most acute CTs in public hospitals are first reported by Registrars and then reviewed by a supervising SMO. Likewise, sonographer and Registrar ultrasounds require SMO sign-off, creating a structure that fosters mentorship and strong team bonds—something I feel is often lacking in the UK.
This model promotes a genuine sense of camaraderie between junior and senior clinicians and builds a more connected, collaborative workplace. It’s not only more satisfying professionally, but it also enhances the standard of care.

Broad Practice, High Standards

One of the more surprising (and rewarding) aspects of working in New Zealand is the breadth of practice expected of Radiologists. Generalism is valued here, which has made the transition smoother for me. That doesn’t mean compromising on quality—quite the opposite. The diagnostic “Reads” (as they call them here) are of an exceptionally high standard. I’ve been consistently impressed by my colleagues’ diagnostic acumen and professionalism.
Interventional Radiology is similarly strong. The team—from fellow IR specialists to nurses and MITs (Medical Imaging Technologists)—work with skill, enthusiasm, and unity. It’s energising to be part of such a capable and motivated group.

The Human Side of the Move

Relocating your life and career is no small undertaking. I’d be lying if I said there weren’t moments of doubt or overwhelm. Leaving behind familiar systems, networks, and routines isn’t easy. But from day one, I had exceptional support from Transition Medical  – particularly Emma and Kirsty—who were by my side through every step.
They helped me secure the job, liaised with the hospital and the Medical Council, and connected me with immigration advisor Nicola Crome from Relocate Down Under  who navigated the visa and relocation logistics. Their guidance made a complex process feel manageable—and at times, even effortless.

Looking Back, Moving Forward

Now, five months into my life and work in New Zealand, I look back with pride and gratitude. It’s not just a professional move—it’s a life shift. The sense of renewal, balance, and purpose I feel is hard to quantify. Yes, there were challenges, but the reward has far exceeded the risk.

If you’re a Radiologist seeking not just a new job, but a new chapter—one with adventure, support, professional growth, and a lifestyle others only dream of—then I can wholeheartedly recommend New Zealand.
Make the leap. Your future self will thank you.

Current Radiology Jobs available in NZ

Consultant Radiologist – Wellington

Radiologist – General – Hamilton

Top 10 Tips for GPs relocating to Australia

Posted on by emma

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
  1. 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.
  1. 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.
  1. 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.
  1. 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.
  1. 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.
  1. 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.
  1. 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.
  1. 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.
  1. 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.

Australia’s Game-Changing Reforms to Bulk Billing

Posted on by emma

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

Medical Registration Process for NZ

Posted on by emma

How to Register with the Medical Council of New Zealand

If you’re looking to work as a doctor in New Zealand, the first essential step is to become registered with the Medical Council of New Zealand (MCNZ). With over 20,000 doctors currently practising in the country—and around 9,000 of them coming from overseas—New Zealand is a popular destination for internationally trained medical professionals.

While the registration process is generally straightforward, it does involve a few nuances that overseas doctors should be aware of. That’s where we come in. Our team can guide you through each step, making the process as smooth and stress-free as possible.

Registration Pathways for Overseas Doctors

The MCNZ uses different registration pathways to assess overseas applications. The route you take will depend on your qualifications, experience, and intentions for working in New Zealand.

Each pathway falls under a specific scope of practice. Understanding which one applies to you is key—and we’re here to help you figure that out.

Key Scopes of Practice:

  • General Scope
    Typically for doctors in non-specialist roles such as Resident Medical Officers (RMOs) or those in vocational training programs.

  • Vocational Scope
    This is for fully trained specialists and allows you to practise independently in your specialty in New Zealand.

  • Special Purpose Scope
    Designed for doctors intending to work in New Zealand temporarily—for example, to gain further training, participate in research, or provide assistance during emergencies.

Regardless of your chosen pathway, you must meet the MCNZ’s fitness for registration requirements, which include demonstrating proficiency in English. For most non-specialist pathways, you’ll also need a confirmed job offer in New Zealand before applying for registration and receiving your practising certificate.

MCNZ typically processes registration applications within 20 working days.

How We Can Help

If you’re thinking about relocating to New Zealand to advance your medical career, we’re here to support you at every stage of the journey.

Our services include:

  • Assessing your eligibility and guiding you through the registration process

  • Securing job opportunities tailored to your preferences

  • Preparing your CV and submitting it to potential employers

  • Managing reference checks and providing details about your prospective practice

  • Supporting you with interview preparation and contract negotiations

  • Assisting with your work visa or permit application

To hear directly from a doctor we’ve helped, check out this video from Dr. Chamal or browse our  Client Testimonials

Read More

Fast-Track GP Specialist Pathway – NZ

The Growing Demand for GPs and Radiologists in NZ

What Do GPs Earn in New Zealand?

Posted on by emma

GP Salary New Zealand

 

If you’re thinking about working as a GP in New Zealand, then you are likely to be attracted by a beautiful country offering beaches, nature, outdoor adventures plus national parks for walking and biking.

You may also be thinking about the work – life balance which GPs in New Zealand enjoy and want to find out more about what life is like. One of the questions we’re often asked, is what the salary is for GPs in New Zealand. We will address these and answer your questions below.

A full time working week in New Zealand is 40 hours per week, over 5 days (10 sessions). In reality however, most GPs don’t work full time. The majority of the contracts we see are 32 hours per week which allows for a day off in the week although there is generally scope to work up to 10 sessions if you wish. The pace of work is also more relaxed with standard appointment times of 15 minutes. You can work fewer hours, however on a temporary work visa, the minimum number of hours required is 30 per week.

GP salaries in New Zealand can be stated as an hourly rate or an annual salary. GP income is around $200K – $220K for a full time position of 40 hours per week. This would be pro-rata for less than 10 sessions.

The current average GP Salary in New Zealand is $110.64 NZD per hour.

Contracts are employment agreements which also include paid annual leave and sick leave plus other benefits such as paid medical indemnity insurance, registration fees and sometimes relocation assistance.

How Do NZ Salaries Compare with the UK?

How your NZ GP income compares will depend on the type of practise in the UK. Salaried GPs may find their income slightly more or at least comparable. If however you are in a successful GP Partnership or busy doing Locum or Out of hours shifts, you may find income to be lower.

Money however, is not everything, and what attracts GPs to New Zealand is the lifestyle. It offers a relaxed pace of life, amazing (free!) outdoor and indoor activities for the family, and a well run healthcare system where GPs are looked after.

We have placed many doctors in New Zealand who find the people very friendly and life much more relaxed. If you would like to find out more about working in New Zealand please do get in touch with our team!

Further Reading

GP Recruitment How we can support a move to NZ

What is life like for GPs in New Zealand

 

 

 

Why Regional Australia GP May Offer You More Than City Life

Posted on by emma

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 Fast Track Registration for Specialist GPs moving to NZ

Posted on by emma

Fast-track registration for provisional vocational specialist registration

Te Kaunihera Rata o Aotearoa, The Medical Council of New Zealand has this announced a GP new fast-track registration which was launched in November 2024 . The new pathway should streamline the registration process, enabling doctors from overseas to join New Zealand’s healthcare system faster and more efficiently.

What will this mean for IMGs?

This is a fantastic opportunity, if you have approved specialist qualifications from UK, Ireland or Australia and considering a move to work in NZ. You can apply to get specialist registration in fields such as general practice, psychiatry, dermatology, emergency medicine, anaesthesia, internal medicine, and anatomical pathology then this new pathway will make it a lot easier and quicker (within 20 days!)

Supporting Work-force needs

The new fast track registration hopes to enable more IMGs to come and work in NZ and address the increasing demand for skilled healthcare professionals. This clever approach still recognises the need to maintain high standards of care, therefore doctors eligible for this registration will have their applications assessed against a set of core requirements to ensure they are well qualified and prepared without needing advice from the specialist medical colleges.

Conclusion

A faster more straightforward pathway makes the transition to practicing in the NZ even more enticing. NZ  is consistently voted one best places to live in the world; whether its the outdoor lifestyle, the culture or more relaxed pace of life your after, get in touch and see how we can help you make your next move.

From the blog:

What do GPs earn in NZ

The Growing Demand for GPs and Radiologists in NZ