Making the move from the UK to Australia as a GP is a big decision. The registration requirements, visa applications, relocation costs and finding the right practice can feel like a daunting process. But Adam explains how we navigated ti to now live and work succesfully as a GP in Rockhampton.
For Adam, the opportunity to improve his lifestyle, enjoy a new adventure and continue developing his medical career was a big driver in his decision to move out to Australia.
In this real-life case study, Adam shares his experience of relocating from the UK to Australia and the advice he would give to other GPs considering the move.
Why Adam Decided to Move to Australia as a UK trained GP
Working abroad had always been something Adam dreamed of, even though he had never visited Australia before.
After speaking with colleagues and other doctors who had made the move, Australia consistently stood out as a destination offering a better work-life balance, excellent career opportunities and an attractive lifestyle.
Adam was working as a locum GP in the UK. While he enjoyed the flexibility, changes in the locum market made work increasingly difficult to secure.
When he came across an Australian GP opportunity through Prospect Health, he decided it was the right time to explore a new path.
“I don’t regret applying to work in Australia. I’m really excited and optimistic about going out there.”
Choosing the Right Location in Australia as a UK trained GP
One of the biggest decisions for any GP moving to Australia is selecting the right location.
Adam knew he wanted:
- A regional city rather than a remote rural location
- Good transport links
- A tropical climate
- Access to outdoor activities and travel opportunities
After reviewing various opportunities, he accepted a position in Rockhampton, Queensland.
With a population of around 100,000 people, Rockhampton offered the ideal balance between city amenities and regional lifestyle. The location also provides easy access to Brisbane, nearby beaches and the Great Barrier Reef.
“I wanted somewhere not completely in the outback. Rockhampton seemed like a good size city, and I was looking for a tropical climate as well.”
What Was the Registration Process Like to move to Australia as a UK trained GP?
According to Adam, the registration process process was not difficult, but it required a bit of admin.
His journey included:
- Registration with the Australian Medical Council (AMC)
- Qualification verification through EPIC
- Comparability assessment with RACGP
- Registration through AHPRA’s expedited pathway
- Visa application and approval
Each stage was straightforward, but he had to be organised to gather documents and satisfy various requirements to ensure the overall process was smooth and efficient.
How Long Did the Move Take?
The complete journey took approximately eight months from accepting the position to preparing for departure.
While this was longer than expected, it allowed additional time to organise personal affairs, housing arrangements and practical relocation tasks.
His advice is simple:
Allow more time than you think you will need.
How Much Did It Cost to move to Australia as a UK trained GP?
Another common question from UK GPs is how much it costs to move to Australia.
Adam estimates that registration and migration costs totaled approximately: £6,000 but had employer sponsorship to offset this cost.
This included:
- Registration fees
- Qualification verification
- Notary services
- Documentation costs
- Various administrative expenses
His Australian employer covered:
- Visa costs
- Flight reimbursement
- A relocation payment upon arrival
- Accommodation
- Vehicle use during his contract
Many Australian practices offer relocation assistance packages, particularly in regional locations where GP demand remains high.
“If you can get a generous employer who’s prepared to meet some of these costs, that can help offset the financial expense a little bit.”
What Support Did His Employer Provide to make the move to Australia as UK trained GP?
Adam accepted a role with a family practice near Rockhampton.
One of the factors that attracted him to the position was the level of support offered by the practice.
The employer provided:
- Temporary accommodation
- Use of a vehicle
- Relocation assistance
- Visa support
- Administrative help with registration paperwork
This support helped remove many of the practical stresses associated with relocating internationally.
“They seem really keen to look after me, which is great.”
What did Adam Look Forward to the Most about moving to Australia as a UK trained GP?
Although Australia offers attractive earning potential, Adam’s primary motivation was lifestyle.
Having never visited Australia before, he viewed the move as a unique opportunity to explore a new country and experience a different healthcare system.
Some of the things he was most excited about include:
- Travelling around Australia
- Exploring Queensland
- Visiting the Great Barrier Reef
- Hiking and outdoor activities
- Experiencing a tropical climate
- Learning a different style of medical practice
With a two-year contract in place, he hopes to make the most of both the professional and personal opportunities available.
How Did Prospect Health Help Adam move to Australia as a UK trained GP?
Throughout the process, Adam worked closely with Prospect Health to secure the role and navigate the relocation process.
From arranging interviews to providing guidance on registration and visa requirements, he found the support valuable throughout the journey.
Particularly helpful was having someone available to answer questions, provide updates and liaise with the employer when needed.
“The migration process is quite difficult to navigate. Having professionals who are used to helping GPs in our situation and can advise on the process was very useful.”
He also highlighted the benefit of having an experienced recruiter negotiate additional relocation support with the employer.
Would Adam Recommend Moving to Australia as a UK trained GP?
Absolutely.
While he acknowledges that the process requires patience and preparation, Adam believes the opportunities available make it worthwhile.
His message to other UK GPs considering Australia is straightforward:
“Just do it, really. If you’re not happy in the UK and you feel you’re struggling or pessimistic about the future, then you only live once.”
Importantly, he points out that making the move does not necessarily mean cutting ties with the UK permanently. Maintaining GMC registration can make a future return much simpler if circumstances change.
What Should UK Trained GPs considering an international move,
do next?
Adam’s story highlights many of the reasons UK-trained GPs continue to choose Australia as their next career destination.
While the registration process can take time, the rewards often include:
- Improved work-life balance
- Higher earning potential
- Greater clinical autonomy
- Strong employer support
- Outstanding lifestyle opportunities
For GPs considering an international move, careful planning and the right support can make the transition significantly smoother.
Adam‘s advice remains clear: don’t let the process put you off. The opportunities waiting on the other side can make the journey well worth it.
Want to learn more about relocating to Australia as a GP?
If you’re ready to explore your options, visit our GP Jobs in Australia page to view live vacancies and learn how Prospect Health can guide you through every stage of your relocation journey — from licensing to lifestyle.
To find out more, get in touch with Ese today on 020 8434 2677 or email him at [email protected] to discuss current opportunities and take the first step towards your GP career in Australia.
Next Up: Is the Cost of Living Better or Worse for a UK GP Looking to Move to Australia?
For many UK GPs, Australia offers more than just sunshine and lifestyle appeal. Higher salaries, better work-life balance, and attractive relocation opportunities continue to make Australia one of the most popular destinations for doctors considering a move abroad.
However, one of the biggest questions remains: Does the higher salary actually translate into a better standard of living?
The answer depends on where you choose to live, your lifestyle, and what you value most, but for many UK-trained GPs, the overall financial picture is often more positive than expected.
Talk to a specialist
ESE OSADOLOR
Specialist Recruitment Consultant
Hi there, my name is Ese Osadolor, and I work as an International Specialist Recruitment Consultant here at Prospect Health.
I have the pleasure of helping GPs who are looking to move to Australia for work. I myself have lived in Australia for 10 years. I moved there when I was 11 with my family. We lived in the Gold Coast city located in Queensland, known for sunny months of the year with beautiful beaches and tourist destinations…