Life After FRACGP: Key Considerations for Newly Fellowed GPs in Australia

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.

🏡 1. Gaining Permanent Residency

For international GPs, securing Permanent Residency (PR) is often a top priority. There are two main pathways:

• General Skilled Migration (GSM): Includes visas like Subclass 189 (Skilled Independent), 190 (State Nominated), and 491 (Regional Provisional). These are points-tested and do not require employer sponsorship.

• Employer-Sponsored Migration: Includes Subclass 186 (Employer Nomination Scheme) and 482 (Temporary Skill Shortage). These can lead to PR after 3 years of work.

🏙️ 2. Relocating to a Metro Location

Many newly Fellowed GPs consider moving closer to major cities for lifestyle, family, or career reasons. However, Medicare access restrictions (Section 19AB) may require you to work in DPA areas.

✅ Recent DPA Updates Include:

• WA: Armadale, Byford, Cockburn, Gosnells, Kalamunda, Mundaring, Swan

• QLD: Noosa, Maroochy, Surfers Paradise, Palmwoods

• NSW: Campbelltown (partial DPA)

• ACT: Molonglo

• SA: Mount Barker

These updates mean more metro-adjacent areas now qualify for DPA status, making relocation easier for overseas-trained GPs.

🧒 3. Children’s Schooling

Australia offers high-quality education with multiple options:

• Public Schools: Free for permanent residents; temporary visa holders may pay fees.

• Private Schools: Include Catholic and independent schools with tuition fees.

• International Schools: Offer IB curriculum, ideal for globally mobile families.

School Zones Matter: If you’re targeting a specific school, consider living within its catchment area.

🏥 4. Finding a Supportive Practice

Choosing the right practice is crucial for your long-term success. Look for:

• Accredited Training Practices: Especially if you're still completing Fellowship requirements.

• Mentorship & Supervision: Practices that offer guidance and peer support.

• Flexible Work Arrangements: Part-time, contractor, or salaried roles depending on your goals.

Practices in DPA areas often offer incentives and are more open to supporting new Fellows.

📍 5. Working in a DPA Location

DPA (Distribution Priority Area) classification is essential for overseas-trained GPs to access Medicare billing. These areas are identified based on GP shortages and patient needs.

• Benefits: Easier visa approval, Medicare access, and often better job offers.

• Challenges: May be further from major cities, but recent updates include metro-adjacent suburbs.

🎯 Final Thoughts

Gaining FRACGP is a major achievement—but it’s just the beginning. Whether you're planning to settle permanently, relocate to a metro area, or find the right school for your children, thoughtful planning will help you build a rewarding career and life in Australia.

THINKING ABOUT YOUR CAREER OPTIONS AFTER FELLOWSHIP EXAMS?

Completing exams and gaining fellowship is a natural time for you to consider new options, potentially a DPA GP job, close to a capital city.

Doctor Connect specialise in helping newly Fellowed GPs find the right supportive practice matching your long-term career aspirations.

If you are experienced in Family Medicine, if you have good exposure to Australian General Practice, and are using a structured approach to your study for the exams like the platform https://www.passgp.au/passgp-academy , then we are confident that you will do well in

exams.

It’s a great idea to discuss this with a Doctor Connect Recruitment Consultant, when you are making plans, because we are able to match you with practices who can offer suitable jobs with 3, 6 or even 12 months’ notice ahead of time – then you’ll know what you are working towards.