Getting Back to Practice
Returning to medical practice in Australia involves understanding national regulations and meeting professional requirements. This guide outlines key steps, organisations, and resources to assist doctors in re-entering the workforce.
Who Regulates Medical Practice?
Medical Board of Australia (Ahpra)
Responsible for:
- Registering doctors and medical students
- Setting professional standards and guidelines
- Investigating complaints
- Assessing international medical graduates
- Accrediting medical courses
State and Territory Medical Councils
Each state and territory has its own medical council that manages concerns about:
- Doctor conduct and performance
- Health impairments affecting practice
- Professional education programs
For specific information, refer to the medical council in your state or territory.
Meeting Recency of Practice Requirements
Doctors must maintain a connection to medical practice. The Medical Board of Australia requires:
- 4 weeks full-time (152 hours) in 12 months OR
- 12 weeks full-time (456 hours) over 3 years
Failure to meet these standards may lead to conditions on registration or refusal to practice.
Changing Your Scope of Practice
- No extra requirements if narrowing practice.
- Additional training required if expanding practice.
- Approval from a specialist college and a professional development plan required if changing fields.
Returning to Work: Medical Board of Australia Requirements
- Away <12 months: No additional requirements.
- Away 12-36 months: Minimum 12 months of Continuing Professional Development (CPD).
- Away >36 months: CPD, professional development plan, and supervised work.
- Doctors with <2 years of experience: Supervised work required if away for more than 12 months.
RACGP Recommendations for GPs
- Away <12 months: Maintain CPD, seek a mentor if needed.
- Away 12-36 months: Learning plan, supervision, clinical skills assessment.
- Away >36 months: Regular teaching, prescribing review, mentorship.
Support Organisations
Doctors' Health Advisory Services
Provide confidential support and advice to doctors and medical students.
- New South Wales: Visit
- Victoria: Visit
- Queensland: Visit
- South Australia and Northern Territory: Visit
- Western Australia: Visit
- Tasmania: Visit
Doctors with Disabilities Australia
Advocates for inclusive medical careers and offers peer support. Visit DWDA
Career Support & Coaching
- Australian Medical Association (AMA): Offers career advice, resume writing, and interview skills. Visit AMA
- Creative Careers in Medicine: A peer support group for career transitions. Join on Facebook
- Medical Career Planning (Dr Ashe Coxon): Coaching and workshops. Visit Medical Career Planning
Occupational Physicians
Assist with work-related injuries and workplace adjustments. Learn more
Wellbeing Support
- Medical Benevolent Associations: Provide financial aid and counselling.
Medical Indemnity Providers Support Services
Avant Visit
MDA National Visit
MIGA Visit
MIPS Visit