GP Careers in Australia vs the UK: Pay Structures, Work Opportunities, and What to Expect

How GP Remuneration Differs

In the UK, GPs are generally paid a salary, with variations depending on whether they’re employed directly by the NHS, work as partners in a practice, or take on locum work. In contrast, Australia operates largely on a contractual, fee-for-service model.

This means that GPs in Australia are typically paid for what they do for each patient. For example:

• A standard consultation attracts a set consultation fee.
• Longer consultations may result in higher fees.
• Additional services, such as performing an ECG, removing a mole, or treating a wound, attract further remuneration on top of the consultation.

Because this model is contractual, most GPs working in Australia also pay a service fee to the practice where they work, typically ranging between 20% and 35% of their billings. For example, if a GP bills AUD $1,000 in a day, they will take home the remainder after the service fee is deducted.

This creates an environment where income is closely tied to the scope of services provided and the level of patient demand, offering motivated practitioners the potential for higher earnings than in a fixed-salary system.

The Employment Landscape: UK vs Australia

At present, the UK faces a challenging job market for GPs. Opportunities are limited, and the competition is particularly tough for newly qualified GPs. Many are finding it difficult to secure the right role in an already stretched healthcare system.

By contrast, Australia presents a very different picture. It is currently an exciting and opportunity-rich environment for GPs, both locally trained and internationally trained. The demand for doctors is high across the country, and opportunities are plentiful in a wide range of settings.

Some of the available career pathways include:

• Urban practices in major cities.
• Rural and remote placements, where demand and pay are often even greater.
• Urgent Care Centres and Emergency Departments, where GPs can apply their skills in acute settings.
• Specialist GP interests, such as women’s health, skin procedures, occupational health, or workers’ compensation cases.

In short, Australia offers flexibility, variety and excellent earnings, allowing GPs to carve out careers that align with their professional passions whilst also enjoying stability and growth.

Final Thoughts

For GPs considering relocation, the contrast between the UK and Australia couldn’t be clearer. While the UK job market is competitive and remuneration is largely fixed, Australia offers a dynamic fee-for-service model and a vast range of opportunities across the healthcare system.

Whether you’re looking for financial reward, career flexibility, or the chance to specialise, Australia is positioning itself as an attractive destination for GPs ready to take the next step in their careers.

Visit our GPs Abroad YouTube channel for firsthand accounts, webinars and advice from doctors who have already made the move: @Prospect_Health_GPsAbroad