What Does “MM2+” Mean for GPs in Australia?
- Rachel Davidson
- Sep 17
- 2 min read
If you’re a doctor considering a move to Australia or exploring training pathways, you may have come across the term “MM2+”. But what exactly does it mean, and why is it important for GPs?
Understanding the Modified Monash Model (MMM)
The Modified Monash Model (MMM) is a classification tool used to measure both the remoteness of an area and its population size. It is designed to guide the distribution of the healthcare workforce across Australia, ensuring that rural and remote communities have better access to medical care.
MMM uses a scale from MM 1 (major city) to MM 7 (very remote):
MM 1 – Major cities (e.g., Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane)
MM 2–7 – Rural and remote communities, with MM 7 being very remote
These classifications are reviewed after each census, based on the Australian Statistical Geography Standard – Remoteness Areas (ASGS-RA).
You can check any location’s classification on the Health Workforce Locator.
Why MM2+ Matters for GPs
In the context of General Practice, MM2+ refers to areas classified as MM 2 or higher. These are rural or remote regions where access to healthcare is more limited, and where doctors are most needed.
Living in an MM2+ area often means:
Patients may wait longer or travel further for medical care
Health services are in higher demand
Government incentives and training opportunities are available for GPs
MM2+ and Distribution Priority Area (DPA)
The Distribution Priority Area (DPA) classification also relies on MMM boundaries. All areas classified MM 2–7 are automatically DPA. This is important because many GP training and Fellowship pathways require working in a DPA or MM2+ location.
For example, the Northern Territory is automatically classified as DPA, regardless of MMM category.
GP Training Pathways and MM2+ Requirements
For overseas-trained doctors (OTDs) and GP registrars, MM2+ plays a key role in eligibility for various programs. Here’s how it applies to major training and registration pathways:
AHPRA Expedited Pathway – Requires DPA (can be MM1)
RACGP PEP Specialist Pathway (Substantially Comparable) – Requires DPA (can be MM1)
RACGP PEP Specialist Pathway (Partially Comparable) – Requires MM2+ until Fellowship is gained, then only DPA
RACGP Fellowship Support Program (FSP) – Requires MM2+
ACRRM Independent Pathway – Requires MM2+, with at least 12 months in MM4+
ACRRM Specialist Pathway – Requires MM4+
Rural Generalist Training Scheme – Requires MM2+, with 12 months in MM4+
Remote Vocational Training Scheme (RVTS) – Requires MM2+
Key Takeaway for GPs
If you’re planning to work as a GP in Australia, especially as an overseas-trained doctor, understanding MM2+ classifications is essential. These areas not only offer excellent professional opportunities but also provide access to government support and incentives designed to attract doctors to rural and remote communities.