Thinking of moving to Australia but are unsure on how to get your qualifications recognised? The Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP) currently recognise a number of qualifications as ‘Substantially Comparable’ to the Australian General Practitioner qualification (FRACGP).
These qualifications are:
- United Kingdom – Membership of the Royal College of General Practitioners
- Canada – Certification in the College of Family Physicians
- Spain – Specialist in Family and Community Medicine
- Sweden – Specialist in Family and Community Medicine
- Ireland – Membership of the Irish College of General Practitioners
- New Zealand – Fellowship of the Royal New Zealand College of General Practitioners
- Malaysia – Membership of the Academy of Family Physicians of Malaysia
- Hong Kong – Fellow of Hong Kong College of Family Physicians
- Malta – Specialist in Family Medicine
What are the advantages of having these qualifications:
You can access the Australian GP specialist qualifications on the easiest track possible:
- No Exams (none at all)
- No qualifying interview (paper-based assessment only)
- You can practise as a recognised GP from the start (no restrictions to scope of practice)
- Ability to earn at the highest level possible for GP services
How long is the registration process and what is involved?
The first step to working in Australia is of course, finding a job. Once you have found the perfect position you can then start on the registration paperwork including:
- Getting your primary medical and specialist qualification verified through the Electronic Portfolio of International Credentials (EPIC) which is valid internationally.
- Applying to the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners’ Specialist PEP Program for comparability status and job approval.
- Obtaining medical registration from the Australian Medical Board (AHPRA)
- Applying for a visa to work in Australia (which is very easy as a doctor!)
- Completing an in-person ID check and obtaining a Medicare provider number to start working
Getting registered to work in Australia can take 6-9 months in total. The timeframes can vary depending on several factors. If you choose to work with Alecto, our dedicated Registration team will assist you with the paperwork and ensure the timing of all applications is seamless.
Do I need to sit any exams or assessments?
No, exams are not required if you hold one of the qualifications listed above. As part of the RACGP’s program, you will complete a workplace-based assessment after commencing work which involves patient surveys and peer review.
If you are from a country where English is not considered the main language, such as Sweden, Malaysia, Spain or Hong Kong, you may need to sit an English test (IELTS or OET) during the registration process – unless you have already done your English test in the past 2 years.
Aside from my qualification, what else will be assessed?
The RACGP will also consider your CPD within the last year and your recency of practice. You must be able to show that you have worked as a GP for 12 months of Full Time Equivalent (FTE) work within the last 3 years. Four weeks of this work must be within the last year. If you are unsure on whether you will meet this standard, please contact your Alecto consultant to have your CV and work experience assessed.
Where can I work?
As an Overseas Trained Doctor, you will be subject to the 10-year moratorium meaning you will be required to work in a Distribution Priority Area (DPA) for 10 years. There are currently lots of DPA locations where you can work and commute from the inner metropolitan areas. All the major cities of Australia have DPA options within 30-60 min of the centre of the city.
How much will the process cost?
The main fees you will be charged throughout the process include (in AU Dollars):
- Visa – $2,770 application fee plus $2,770 per adult dependant
- RACGP PEP Program – $9,049
- AHPRA – $1,600
*some employers provide a relocation payment of $A20,000 which will assist with these costs
How much will I earn as a GP In Australia?
The registration and relocation process can get expensive however the cost of living in Australia is cheaper and your potential earnings are much higher. As this is a popular question to ask, we conduct a GP salary survey every year to have the most accurate information available for you. View the most recent salary information here.
Why should I work with a recruiter?
- Our service is free to you. We are paid by your future employer when you start working.
- The registration paperwork can be complex and time consuming – but you will be supported by our experienced registration team making it quicker and easier for you.
- When matching you with the right job, we listen to your wants and needs to find the best job for you. We work with many different practices and know which ones are the best operators and will provide the best support for you. We will provide you with tailored options to suit the lifestyle you are looking for in Australia.
- Got a question? All you need to do is text or email [email protected] and we will be there for you.
Please Note: The registration process can change without notice and you will be assessed on your individual work experience as well as your qualification. Alecto will provide you with our best advice but can never guarantee an outcome from agencies such as the RACGP and AHPRA.
Considering a move to Australia? Have you read our FAQs about 19AB Exemptions?
Contact us at [email protected] for a confidential discussion.