Fast-track registration pathway to Australia opens for GPs
There’s exciting news for internationally qualified General Practitioners looking to make the move to Australia. From 21 October 2024, eligible GPs are able to apply for specialist registration through a new Expedited Specialist Pathway, significantly streamlining the process.
This new pathway allows certain overseas-trained GPs to skip the lengthy college assessment process and apply directly to the Medical Board of Australia and AHPRA - a move designed to cut red tape and bring more qualified GPs into the Australian workforce, sooner.
Who’s eligible?
To be eligible, your GP qualification must be included on the official Expedited Specialist Pathway: accepted qualifications list.
Currently, GPs with one of the following qualifications are eligible to apply through this route:
- Membership of the Irish College of General Practitioners (MICGP) from 2009, plus a Certificate of Satisfactory Completion of Specialist Training (CSCST)
- Fellowship of the Royal New Zealand College of General Practitioners (FRNZCGP) from 2012
- Membership of the Royal College of General Practitioners (UK) from 2007, plus a Certificate of Completion of Training (CCT)
If you hold one of these qualifications, you’ll no longer need to undergo an individual assessment by RACGP or ACRRM—you can now apply directly for registration.
Why the change?
The new pathway was developed in response to urgent GP workforce needs across Australia. It simplifies the registration process for highly trained doctors from comparable health systems while ensuring safety and standards remain high.
The previous process required a time-consuming and often expensive college assessment. Under this new model, doctors with pre-approved qualifications can bypass that step entirely.
Are there other requirements?
Yes. All GPs applying through the Expedited Specialist Pathway must still meet existing registration requirements, including:
- English language skills
- Criminal history and professional conduct checks
- Recency of practice
They’ll also complete:
- Six months of supervised practice
- An orientation to the Australian healthcare system
- Mandatory cultural safety education
Fellow Clinic GPs, did you know?
Fellow Clinic General Practitioners may be eligible for further relocation and visa assistance. Register with Medrecruit to explore which clinics offer these benefits and find out what you might be eligible for.
What’s next?
This new GP pathway is just the beginning. Anaesthetics and psychiatry were added to the accepted qualifications list in December 2024, followed by obstetrics and gynaecology in March 2025. Other areas may follow based on national workforce needs.
The existing Specialist Pathway will remain open for those not eligible for the expedited route, and there are transition arrangements for GPs already partway through the traditional process.
Why work with an agency?
Relocating to another country and navigating a new health system can be overwhelming on your own - that’s where working with a medical recruitment agency can make all the difference.
Here’s how we can support you:
- Dedicated team: You’ll have one consistent point of contact to guide you through every step.
- Expert navigation: We understand the nuances of AHPRA, college assessments, and registration requirements — and we’ll help you tick every box.
- Great connections: With long-standing relationships across public hospitals, private hospitals, and clinics, we’ll match you with the best-fit job.
- Job search made easy: We do the searching, negotiating, and scheduling for you.
- Paperwork support: From forms to follow-ups, we handle the admin so you can focus on your career (and your move).
Thinking of making the move? Our expert IMG team can help you confirm your eligibility, navigate the paperwork, and secure a role that suits your lifestyle.
Register today and take the first step toward practicing in Australia.