DPA

A doctor who holds AHPRA general registration and is on an eligible temporary visa can apply for a Medicare provider number and work in a GP practice without being enrolled in any of those programs. This route operates under a distinct legal mechanism — a section 19AB pathway exemption — rather than the section 3GA “approved placement” pathway used by the training programs.

Moving from a regional or rural placement to a metropolitan area is one of the most significant decisions a GP will make after Fellowship. For many newly fellowed FRACGPs and international medical graduates, the appeal of city life — better family opportunities, greater anonymity, stronger collegiate support and lifestyle amenities — is strong.

Arriving in Australia to begin work as a General Practitioner is exciting — and intense. Between visa activation, identity documents, PRODA setup, practice orientation and family logistics, the first month can feel overwhelming. The good news is that with a clear sequence and the right support, most doctors move from landing to seeing patients efficiently and confidently.

or many newly fellowed FRACGPs and international medical graduates, the choice of where to practise is as much about lifestyle as it is about clinical opportunity. In 2026, Western Australia — and Perth in particular — continues to stand out as one of the most compelling destinations in the country.

Moving from rural or regional practice to a metropolitan area is achievable, but it requires understanding the DPA reality, timelines, and smart navigation.

This guide walks you through exactly why PRODA matters and how to set it up as quickly as possible after landing.

Congratulations! You’ve successfully navigated the RACGP Fellowship Exams and earned your FRACGP. This achievement marks the beginning of a new chapter—one filled with exciting opportunities and important decisions. Whether you're an international medical graduate or a local GP, here are the main considerations to help you plan your next steps. Gaining Permanent Residency For international GPs, securing Permanent Residency (PR) is often a top priority. There are two main path

RACGP Fellowship Exams consist of three components: 1. Applied Knowledge Test (AKT) 2. Key Feature Problem (KFP) 3. Clinical Competency Exam (CCE)

Learn how Distribution Priority Areas (DPA) affect International Medical Graduates accessing Medicare and working as GPs in Australia.

ACRRM Specialist Pathway, for DPA/MM4 location - a pathway with a focus on rural and remote practice