Is now the right time for Kiwi doctors to move to Australia?

Few New Zealand doctors know that they can live and work in Australia. With similar healthcare systems and regulatory requirements, making the move across the Tasman is often simpler than expected.

What’s more: there’s a shortage of doctors in Australia and only Kiwi doctors can easily fill this gap right now, meaning there are a multitude of job prospects in enviable locations with competitive rates.

Can New Zealand-trained doctors work in Australia?

As a New Zealand-trained doctor, you can work in Australia provided you meet requirements and register with the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA – Australia’s MCNZ).

There’s a bit of paperwork to prepare first (like CVs and references), but once that’s complete the registration process takes on average 6–8 weeks. Medrecruit offers support throughout the process, from managing the paperwork to finding jobs that align with your professional goals.

Why is now the best time to move?

Australia relies on overseas-trained doctors to fill important roles right across the country, so there’s likely to be a larger shortage of doctors as fewer International Medical Graduates (IMGs) seek work in Australia due to the complexity of their registration pathway.

Doctors who want to try living and working in Australia will therefore have the upper hand – it’s easier for them to move to Australia than for other ‘non-Aussie’ doctors and there’s more jobs and locations to choose from.

What are the perks for Kiwi doctors working in Australia?

The main benefit for Kiwi doctors locuming in Australia is the money. You could be earning significantly more in Australia than in New Zealand – as much as AUD $4000 per day in locum positions. It’s a fantastic opportunity to squirrel away some extra cash towards your first home or a bucket-list adventure, while gaining international career experience.

If you choose to locum, the opportunity to travel and explore parts of Australia is another draw card. Medrecruit has roles in all States across Australia, meaning you can find a permanent role in your dream location, or explore many corners of the country via locum roles, that provide free travel and accommodation.

It’s a fantastic opportunity to see how a slightly different healthcare system works, develop your skills and progress your career, without straying too far from good ol’ Aotearoa.

What do I need to do to live and work in Australia?

As with many processes in medicine – there’s a bit of paperwork to get though. We can help you with this and point you in the right direction (the paperwork can vary depending on where you want to work in Australia and what your speciality is).

You will need to arrange your own flights and travel to Australia. But, once there, accommodation and travel between placements is often covered. We’ve got dedicated teams in Australia and New Zealand so if you’ve ever stuck or need a hand, your personal Solutions Specialist is never more than a phone call away.

Best of all, Medrecruit’s service is free for doctors.

Tips for Kiwi doctors thinking about moving to Australia

• Plan ahead: Start preparing your paperwork early, especially if you’re aiming to work in Australia during a specific season.
• Budget for your move: Be sure to save for expenses like flights and your AHPRA registration. While there may be some upfront costs, you’ll quickly make up for it once you start working in Australia.
• Consider your stay: Think about how long you’d like to spend in Australia. Many doctors opt for locum positions for at least a few months, and some stay for a year or more before deciding whether to return to New Zealand or make the move permanent.

Ready to take the next step in your medical career? Let Medrecruit help you navigate the process and find the perfect opportunity in Australia today, register now.