top of page
Search

Expedited Pathway: Your Guide to Becoming a General Practitioner in Australia

  • Writer: Rachel Davidson
    Rachel Davidson
  • Sep 25
  • 3 min read

Australia’s General Practitioner (GP) workforce is in high demand, and for doctors from the UK, Ireland, and New Zealand, the Expedited Pathway offers a streamlined route to join Australian practices in just a few months. At Doctor Connect, we specialise in helping overseas-trained doctors navigate this pathway efficiently, from finding the right job to completing registration and immigration processes.


Finding the Right Job in Australia

With over 10 years of experience, Doctor Connect helps GPs secure roles in supportive workplaces that suit both their professional and personal needs. We understand that relocating isn’t just about the job, it’s about your family, lifestyle, and community.

When speaking with your Doctor Connect Recruitment Consultant, we discuss:


  • Your priorities for the move

  • Family size and children’s ages

  • Location preferences or flexibility

  • Notice period at your current workplace

  • Start availability in Australia

  • Any additional considerations


Our team provides tailored guidance to help you pass all requirements and start work as soon as possible.


Suitable Practice Locations

Australia has a chronic shortage of GPs, especially in outer metropolitan, regional, and rural areas. Doctors on the Expedited Pathway with a Substantially Comparable qualification are initially required to work in a Distribution Priority Area (DPA) under a 10-year moratorium.


Working in these areas has multiple benefits:

  • Higher consult rates and fully booked schedules

  • Annual government incentives for GPs in MM3+ locations

  • Accelerated pathway to unrestricted work in 4-6 years

  • Opportunities to gain FRACGP and permanent residency


Strategically choosing your first practice location allows you to serve communities in need, maximise income, and plan for long-term settlement in Australia.


Mentorship and Practice Support- Expedited Pathway

Doctor Connect ensures you are matched with practices offering structured mentorship. Informal meetings via Teams with practice representatives help you understand:


  • Patient demographics

  • Patient flow and consult volumes

  • Expected income for your profile


Having experienced supervisors from day one sets you up for a successful Australian career.


The registration journey involves cascading steps, including:


  1. Qualification verification via ECFMG/EPIC and registration with the Australian Medical Council

  2. AHPRA registration with the Medical Board of Australia

  3. Immigration for work visas or permanent residency

  4. Medicare Provider Number (MPN) registration


Doctor Connect’s registration team provides guidance, manages documentation, and updates you on current processing times to ensure a fast, smooth transition. Read more about registration steps, timelines, and more here.


Immigration Pathways

Most overseas GPs start on a 482 Temporary Skill Shortage Visa (TSS), sponsored by an Australian practice, allowing full work rights for 2-4 years. Families can join under the same visa. Some may be eligible for 186DE Permanent Residency, depending on the practice.

Australia encourages GPs to complete exams and gain permanent residency, supported by practices and RACGP.


GPs in Australia are typically contractors, working under a fee-for-service model, earning the full Medicare rebate per consult. Key points:


  • High-quality care and strong patient relationships improve earnings

  • Working in areas of GP shortage yields better income than higher percentage rates in oversupplied regions

  • Fee-for-service encourages a healthy work-life balance


Costs and Incentives

Relocating involves costs for registration, exams, and visa applications. Some practices offer relocation bonuses or sign-on payments, particularly for independent practices with high-quality mentorship and support.


Take the Next Step

Doctor Connect is here to guide you through every step:

  • Finding a suitable practice

  • Navigating registration and immigration

  • Maximizing earnings and career progression


Contact us today to discuss your unique needs and start your journey as a GP in Australia.


Recruitment Team: info@doctorconnect.health | WhatsApp: +61 459 064 707 Registrations Team: racgp@doctorconnect.health | WhatsApp: +61 493 612 690

bottom of page