Destination Spotlight: Goldfields-Esperance, WA

A Diverse Region of Opportunity, Community & Natural Wonder

Covering nearly a third of Western Australia, the Goldfields-Esperance region is as diverse as it is vast, stretching from the pristine coastline of Esperance to the red dirt and gold mines of the outback. This is a region where adventure meets opportunity, where professionals can grow their careers while embracing a lifestyle grounded in community, nature, and connection.

For General Practitioners (GPs), this region represents a golden opportunity to make a real difference, with high demand, strong community support, and the chance to enjoy a lifestyle that's truly unique.

Why GPs Choose Goldfields-Esperance

• DPA/MMM Classifications: All towns in the region are Distribution Priority Area (DPA) and Modified Monash Model (MMM3-7), ideal for VR GPs, Rural Generalists, General Registration GPs and SIMGs looking to access greater earning potential and rural workforce support.
• Diverse Practice Settings: From solo clinics to community health centres and Aboriginal Medical Services, doctors can explore a range of clinical interests and patient demographics.
• Attractive Incentives: GPs may be eligible for rural relocation grants, retention payments, and procedural or supervision incentives through state and federal programs.
• Lifestyle Variety: Choose between coastal living in Esperance, inland charm in Kalgoorlie-Boulder, or true outback adventure in remote towns like Ravensthorpe and Hopetoun.

Spotlight on Kalgoorlie-Boulder

The Goldfields’ Cultural & Economic Hub

Home to over 30,000 people, Kalgoorlie-Boulder is the beating heart of the region. Famous for its gold mining legacy and grand heritage architecture, today it is a thriving inland city offering modern amenities and a strong sense of community.

Why it’s great for GPs:

• DPA & MMM3 location, ideal for Rural Pathway General Registration doctors and SIMGs
• Full patient books from day one with high billings (often 65–70%)
• Support for special interests including skin, chronic disease, occupational health
• Established practices with nurse and admin support

Family & Lifestyle:

• Affordable housing: Great value for buyers and renters, with heritage homes and newer developments
• Education: Multiple public and private schools, early learning centres, and a Curtin University campus
• Things to do: Visit the Super Pit, explore Karlkurla Bushland Park, take in public art via Heartwalk, or dive into local history at the Museum of the Goldfields
• Community: Active sporting clubs, events, and regional festivals year-round

More Regional Gems to Explore

Esperance

• What makes it special: Crystal-clear turquoise waters, white sandy beaches, and access to Cape Le Grand National Park
• GP opportunities: Strong need for rural GPs with locum and permanent options; DPA/MMM5
• Ideal for: Doctors who want a relaxed, coastal lifestyle with schools, hospital, and community feel

Norseman

• What makes it special: Gateway to the Nullarbor and the start of the Eyre Highway
• GP opportunities: Small town with rural and outreach healthcare needs; often serviced by RFDS or visiting GPs
• Ideal for: Adventure-seekers and GPs with an interest in remote and Indigenous health

Leonora & Laverton

• What makes them special: Northern Goldfields towns with deep Indigenous and mining history
• GP opportunities: Clinics often tied to Aboriginal Medical Services (AMS); opportunities for procedural and community-focused care
• Ideal for: GPs passionate about Aboriginal health and remote practice

Ravensthorpe & Hopetoun

• What makes them special: Nestled between coast and bushland, with access to Fitzgerald River National Park, a global biodiversity hotspot
• GP opportunities: Small clinics or outreach roles; often supported by rural locum programs
• Ideal for: Doctors seeking peaceful, nature-focused living with a mix of agricultural and coastal charm

Living in the Region: What You Can Expect

• Connectivity: Regional flights to Perth from Kalgoorlie and Esperance; sealed highways and rail access
• Affordability: Cost of living is generally lower than metropolitan WA
• Family-friendly: Great local schools, childcare, sports and youth programs across major towns
• Welcoming communities: Rural WA is known for its friendliness, multicultural spirit, and strong support networks for new arrivals

Whether you’re looking to advance your GP career, explore Aboriginal health, or simply live a little closer to nature, the Goldfields-Esperance region has something to offer. With professional opportunity, lifestyle variety, and a sense of adventure, it’s one of Australia’s most rewarding places to live and work as a GP.

Let us help you discover the right opportunity in WA’s heartland - view jobs here.

Contact:

Adelene Chew
Senior Recruitment Consultant
WA Office
+61 430 037 389
adelene.chew@dxcmedical.com.au