Relocating across the world is never a small decision, especially when it involves your career, culture, and family. For Dr Sufyan Saad, the move from Pakistan to regional Western Australia was driven by opportunity, lifestyle, and a desire for professional variety. Today, he’s settled into life in Bunbury, working at Dalyellup Family Medical Centre enjoying both his role as a GP and the welcoming community around him.
Medical background and training
Dr Sufyan completed his medical degree in Karachi, Pakistan, before training in Family Medicine through the Indus Hospital Health Network. With more than a decade of experience in clinical practice, including time spent working in private medical centres, general practice became a natural fit.
“I love variation,” he explains. “Meeting new people, solving different problems every day, that’s what keeps me engaged. General practice gives you that, along with flexibility and balance outside of medicine.”
Why Australia?
Like many international doctors, Dr Sufyan explored several global options before choosing Australia.
“There were opportunities elsewhere, including the UK, but Australia felt different,” he says. “It’s a continent, not just a country. The scope of opportunity here is huge, professionally and personally.”
Lifestyle played a major role too. Compared to colder, gloomier climates, Australia’s weather and outdoor lifestyle felt far more appealing, particularly for long-term settlement.
“General practice here is also structured differently. You’re running your own business as a contractor, and if you work well, the rewards can be better.”
Dr Sufyan is currently undertaking the PEP Specialist Pathway, a structured and supported training pathway that enables internationally trained GPs to work in Australia while progressing towards Fellowship. The pathway provides clear clinical governance, supervision, and education, allowing doctors to continue practising with confidence as they adapt to the Australian healthcare system.
Choosing Western Australia
Western Australia wasn’t initially on Dr Sufyan’s radar, but that soon changed.
“With DXC’s guidance, WA came into the picture. Once I learned more about the town and the lifestyle, I didn’t hesitate. Honestly, it turned out to be the best decision.”
Now living and working in the South West, he’s embraced everything the region offers, from the slower pace to the sense of community.
The relocation journey
Relocating to Australia was a detailed process that required careful coordination, particularly around registration, compliance, and pathway requirements. Like many international doctors, Dr Sufyan’s journey required patience, with timelines influenced by a combination of regulatory steps, visa processing, and unexpected changes along the way. While there were moments where plans shifted at short notice, having the right support in place made all the difference.
“There were times when things changed at the last hour, which can be stressful,” Dr Sufyan says. “But having a team that stayed across every detail and guided me step by step gave me real confidence.”
Throughout the process, consistent communication and hands-on support ensured nothing was missed and every requirement was addressed thoroughly and compliantly.
“I genuinely thank the DXC Medical team from the bottom of my heart. They were thorough, always available, and made sure I felt supported the entire way through.”
Like many international GPs, Dr Sufyan chose to relocate initially on his own, allowing him to settle into work and the local community before bringing his family, a practical and common approach that helped make the transition smoother and more manageable.
Feeling welcomed, at work and beyond
One of the most powerful aspects of Dr Sufyan’s experience has been how welcomed he’s felt in Australia.
“Before coming, people warned me,” he shares. “They said I might need to change how I dress, shave my beard, hide parts of my identity. As a Muslim, that was something I worried about.”
The reality couldn’t have been more different.
“I found Australians to be some of the sweetest, most welcoming people. My patients made me feel comfortable from day one. There was no judgement, only respect.”
Working in a multicultural country helped ease the transition too.
“You see people from everywhere, Pakistan, India, the Philippines, Africa, China. Everyone is contributing, everyone belongs. I truly feel at home here.”
Working as a GP in Australia
Now established in his role, Dr Sufyan is enjoying both the work and the team around him.
“The staff are lovely, the doctors are supportive, and I’m in a great group,” he says.
While adapting to Australian systems, including clinical guidelines and the PBS, took some adjustment, his experience made the transition smoother.
“At first, you’re anxious. But with time, you adapt. People help you, guide you. It feels like you’re gliding rather than struggling.”
Life in Bunbury
Outside of work, Dr Sufyan is gradually exploring his new surroundings.
“I haven’t travelled much yet, I wanted to focus on settling in first,” he says. “But even just driving around, I love it.”
Favourite shops, cafes, and local spots, are becoming part of the rhythm of living in Bunbury.
Advice for international GPs
For doctors considering a move to Australia, Dr Sufyan’s advice is simple and reassuring.
“It’s a beautiful country, and no matter your background, religion, or culture, you are welcome. I’ve experienced that firsthand.”
If you’re an international GP considering a move to Australia, or simply exploring what your options could look like, our team is here to help. From understanding pathways and registration requirements to finding the right role and location, we support doctors at every stage of their journey.
Get in touch with our team for a confidential conversation or search our current GP job opportunities across Australia to see what roles are available right now.
Adelene Chew
+61 430 037 389
adelene.chew@dxcmedical.com.au
Relocating internationally as a GP is a major life decision, one that requires commitment, careful planning, and the right support. For Dr Shanika, the move from Oman to regional Victoria was a thoughtfully planned journey that came together smoothly and efficiently, allowing her to settle quickly into both her new role and community.
For many internationally trained doctors, moving abroad represents both a professional leap and a deeply personal journey. For Dr April Rose Uba, a Family Medicine specialist from the Philippines, relocating to Australia has opened the door to a fulfilling GP career, a more settled lifestyle, and a new chapter for her family in the beautiful South West region of Western Australia.
