International Medical GraduatesWorking as a specialist doctor in Australia

How to work as a specialist doctor in Australia

The Specialist Pathway — eligibility, the six general steps, and resources for IMGs already qualified as specialists overseas.

To work as a specialist in Australia, you'll need to go through a process called the Specialist Pathway.

Eligibility

You must first be qualified as a specialist in your own country — meaning you've completed the appropriate training and obtained the qualification.

An exam certificate alone (such as one of the UK MRC exams) does not qualify you.

The six general steps

  1. Apply to the Australian Medical Council (AMC) for primary degree and postgraduate degree source verification.
  2. Apply to the relevant Australian specialist medical college for a comparability assessment. A summary of all the colleges is on our International Doctors resource page.
  3. Apply for a suitable job offer in Australia.
  4. Apply for registration with the Medical Board of Australia.
  5. Complete 12 to 24 months of supervised practice, which may include examinations.
  6. Apply again to the Medical Board of Australia for specialist registration.

Important note

The process may vary depending on your specific circumstances and the requirements of the medical college you're applying to. Consult with the AMC and the relevant specialist medical college for guidance specific to your situation.

Resources