GP Jobs in Australia: What the GP lifestyle and work-life balance really looks like
Thinking about relocating to Australia as a GP? One of the biggest draws for doctors making the move is the country’s reputation for incredible work-life balance, a career where you can truly enjoy your time both in and out of practice. But is it really as good as it sounds?
We spoke with a GP currently living and working in Australia to find out what life is really like for doctors Down Under, and it turns out, the reality is even better than expected.
“I wouldn’t say it’s as good as the press makes it out to be, it’s better.”
Flexibility for GPs working in Australia: A career like nowhere else
In Australia, GPs enjoy a remarkable level of flexibility and control over their schedules. Unlike many healthcare systems, where hours are rigid and demanding, Australian general practice allows doctors to shape their work around their lifestyle.
“I love flying helicopters, it’s a real passion of mine,” Amit shared. “I can wake up at nine, grab a coffee at my local café, fit in a flying lesson at the nearby aviation centre, and then head to work at three in the afternoon. And if I can’t make it at three, I can simply start at four. That kind of flexibility is completely normal here.”
Diverse GP work settings and opportunities across Australia
Australia also offers GPs an incredibly diverse range of working environments, from suburban clinics to urgent care centres and even remote hospitals. Many doctors travel between states, taking short-term placements that let them experience new regions while continuing their careers.
“I get to see the country as well,” Amit explained. “For example, if there’s a hospital in Western Australia that needs cover and my skills set matches what they’re looking for, they’ll fly me out there. The hospital covers my accommodation, gives me access to a car, and pays a daily rate we’ve agreed on. On my days off, I can go and explore the area.”
Explore Australia while working as a GP
The balance between work and lifestyle is something Australians take seriously — and it shows. Even colleagues and employers encourage doctors to make time to enjoy the incredible natural surroundings.
“I worked in Queensland (link to GP Jobs in Queensland ) where some of the colleagues said, ‘You’re meant to start at 10, but why not come in at 1 so you can visit that waterfall? It’s spectacular, you can’t come all this way and not see it.’ You’d never find that kind of attitude in the UK.”
A GP lifestyle in Australia that’s hard to beat
From flexible working hours and well-paid contracts to paid travel and accommodation, Australia offers a lifestyle that’s truly hard to match, especially for healthcare professionals looking for both career progression and personal freedom.
“Everything’s taken care of for you in Australia,” Amit said. “It’s incredible.”
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.
Ready to experience the GP lifestyle in Australia for yourself?
If you’ve ever dreamed of combining a rewarding GP career with an unbeatable lifestyle, Australia could be the perfect place for you.
Get in touch with Ese today, call him on 020 8434 2677 or email him at [email protected] to discuss current opportunities and start your journey towards a GP career in Australia.
View all our GP Jobs in Australia
Next Up: Why the quality of life may be a reason to relocate to Australia as a GP
For General Practitioners (GPs) in the UK seeking a fresh start, relocating to Australia as a GP presents a compelling opportunity. Beyond professional rewards, Australia offers an enviable quality of life marked by sunshine, work-life balance, and a strong healthcare infrastructure.
The Australian healthcare system places GPs at its core, providing both career stability and lifestyle benefits that make moving to Australia as a GP an attractive prospect.
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…