Frequently Asked Questions

• What can I expect to earn as senior doctor in Australia?

  In a senior doctor job in Australia you will earn in the range of $115,000 - $205, 000 per annum.
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• I prefer to work in the major city hospitals, how easy is it to get jobs in these locations?

  We place doctors throughout Australia, and specialise in placing overseas trained doctors in Queensland.  Most of the large locations are secondary hospitals that will offer great hands on experience and a great lifestyle to go with it.  If you like to be close to beautiful beaches then Queensland is the place to go!
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• How do I organise my registration in Australia?

  There is no need to worry about this, because MedRecruit will take you through this process step by step.  There is more paperwork in Australia than New Zealand, however we will assign you one of our knowledgeable and efficient Placement Coordinators, free of charge, and they’ll make everything nice and easy for you.
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• Do I qualify to work in Australia?

  Doctors who have obtained their primary medical degree from Australia or New Zealand are eligible for General Registration in all states of Australia.

  International Medical Graduates may be eligible for registration either via the Competent Authority Pathway, The Standard Pathway or The Specialist Pathway. We recommend you read our Medical Registration section and visit www.ahpra.gov.au if you need more information.

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• Can I locum in Australia?

  For senior doctors to locum in Australia they are required to have a Fellowship of the Royal Collage of Australasia and full unlimited work rights.  Once you have your General Registration you will be able to undertake locum work.

  Make sure you tell us when you are ready to start locuming, and we’ll make sure you get your perfect placement!

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• Can I do a six month placement in Australia?

  No.  Unfortunately Australian hospitals are specifically interested in IMGs who are willing to work for at least one year.
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• Will the hospitals cover my relocation costs in Australia?

  All hospitals in Australia will contribute to the cost of your relocation and the amount is dependent on your grade and specialty.  This is reimbursed at the completion of your contract.
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• Can I choose where I work?

  The choice is yours! During your Strategy Session, your MedRecruit Solutions Specialist will help you decide on the best range of options to help you reach your goals.
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• Are work conditions in Australia better than in the UK and Ireland?

  Yes! Australia is a fantastic place for doctors to work. The average doctor works under 55hrs per week, there is no 24hr call and salaried doctors get six weeks annual leave.

  Over summer most states of Australia utilise daylight saving, which means there are five or six hours of daylight after work to enjoy the outdoor lifestyle Australia is famous for.

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• Is there an age limit if I want to work in Australia?

  There are no age limitations on working in Australia.
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• Can I apply for work directly to the hospital or practice, without going through an agency?

  The answer is ‘yes’, you can, however please be aware it’s a very difficult process unless you’re supported. MedRecruit has an experienced team to partner with you. The advantages of using our FREE service include:

  1. Access to the many vacancies that are NOT publicly advertised!
  2. Personal assistance from our Placement Co-ordinators. From work visas to medical registration and travel arrangements - everything you need to find a position they’ll handle for you, before, during and after your placement.
  3. MedRecruit can often get you a better deal. We have great relationships with the hospitals and what this means for you is we will negotiate extra benefits on your behalf, such as reimbursement of your travel expenses!
  4. MedRecruit Rewards – from bungee jumps, to IPad’s, its yours FREE when you work with MedRecruit.
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• How do I find out more information about working in Australia?

  Give us a call! Our team has helped thousands of doctors and we can help you too!
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• What English Language testing requirements do I need to meet to work in Australia?

  All doctors who wish to work in Australia and for whom English is a second language will need to submit evidence to the relevant registration authority of competency in speaking and communicating in English, as demonstrated by having completed the IELTS examination (Academic module) to the relevant standard: For further details please visit www.amc.org.au.
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• Can I extend my visa if I like working in Australia?

  Yes, you can extend your visa easily and for several years continuously. If you are looking at becoming a permanent resident of either country you will need to apply to their respective immigration departments.
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• How do I find out about vacancies?

  The very best way is to sign up for regular and up to the minute job match emails from MedRecruit. If you’re really keen, you can elect to get your saved search results emailed to you daily! And, it’s vital that you let your Solutions Specialist know exactly what you want, so they’ll also notify you of the jobs they know are perfect for you. The more they know about your preferences, the more they’ll work hard on your behalf to make it happen.
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• Do I have to pay MedRecruit for finding me a job?

  No, our service to doctors is completely free!
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