Postgraduate training

There are 2 kinds of formal training which may be available to overseas trained doctors (OTDs):

• Prevocational training taken in a public hospital. This includes the compulsory year of clinical training (the intern year) required by the State and Territory Medical Boards to achieve full (unconditional) medical registration, and often an additional year or two during which doctors consolidate their skills; and
• Vocational training for doctors wishing to become specialists (including specialist general practitioners/family physicians), or other doctors who are seeking specific training.

Vocational training programs are run by the Specialist Medical Colleges (including the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners) and take between 3 and 7 years to complete. Successful completion of this training leads to eligibility for recognition by the relevant College, which will enable the OTD to apply to a Medical Board for registration to practise independently as a specialist in Australia. Eligibility for Fellowship of an Australian or Australasian Specialist Medical College may involve an applicant having to meet further requirements of the College.

The Colleges also provide a range of opportunities for Fellows to access continuing professional development programs. Some Colleges also offer continuing professional development programs for non Fellows.

OTDs should be aware that training programs have a limited number of positions available and competition for these is strong.

If you would like to find out more about prevocational training positions, the State and Territory Postgraduate Medical Councils are a useful first point of contact.

For more information on vocational training programs, contact the relevant Australian Specialist Medical College or ask your employer for advice.

Information for OTDs who are interested in undertaking the Australian General Practice Training Program leading to Fellowship of the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners is also available on DoctorConnect.