Medical Jobs in Australia - FAQs

Q1. Why do so many doctors choose to work in Australia?

A1. The common reasons for working in Australia are:

a. Work related - less hours, better conditions, good pay, excellent training, increased opportunities

b. Lifestyle related - Better climate, 'easy way-of-life', beautiful beaches, breathtaking scenery, plentiful and affordable recreational opportunities such as surfing, diving, sailing, jet-skiing, climbing, skiing, etc

Q2. Is there an age limit for doctors wishing to work in Australia?

A2. There is no age limit. Applications from doctors who would like to work in Australia at any stage of their career are encouraged.

Q3. Is there a minimum length of time I have to go for?

A3. Most of the vacancies we have are for periods of 6 months or 12 months initially. We are able to organise longer placements if required.

Q4. Does the Health Financial Medical decide where I work or do I decide myself?

A4. The choice is entirely up to you. After you have submitted your CV, you will be sent a simple questionnaire asking for your preferences and interests. The applicant decides exactly where and what position they do. We simply offer a list of available posts fitting their preferences.

Q5. Are there many British and North American doctors working in Australia?

A5. A census of the medical workforce in Australia in 1998 counted over 4000 British-trained doctors working in Australia, which is more than 8% of the medical workforce.

Q6. What are the salaries of doctors in Australia like?

A6. Remuneration for doctors in Australia varies from specialty and location but in general remuneration is significant for the hours worked. As a rule, doctors are usually contracted to do 38 hours a week. Depending on the exact location and seniority, they can expect to earn between $50,000 to $250,000.

Importantly the cost of living is substantially cheaper than living in the UK or USA with a doctor's salary in Australia stretching much further than it does in other countries. Many of the agencies and practices that our doctors work in offer additional attractive benefits which we can discuss with you.

Q7. If I like working in Australia, is it possible to extend my work visa?

A7. It is often very easy to extend a work visa up to several years, however for those candidates wishing to move permanently to Australia, you may need to also complete additional requirements set out by the relevant immigration department. It is, however, possible for some candidates to work permanently and obtain residency in specified areas.

Q8. What is the best way to find out further information about working in Australia?

A8. To discuss your options for working in Australia, and to learn about a range of vacancies most suited to your individual needs, e-mail or telephone us. The first step would be to discuss your preferences. We then ask for a copy of your CV and provide you with details of suitable vacancies.

Q9. What English Language testing requirements are needed to work in Australia?

A9. All doctors who want to work in Australia will require proof of English language proficiency. Doctors who have been educated in English speaking countries may be exempted from all testing. Doctors educated in non-English speaking countries may need to complete an IELTS assessment at one of many international testing centers. Further details of this (including locations and costs) available at www.ielts.org