DXC Medical Recruitment is pleased to be involved in an exciting new initiative supporting the growth of the GP workforce across the Newcastle, Lower Hunter, Lake Macquarie and Central Coast regions of New South Wales.
As part of the Australian Government's Medicare Bulk Billing Initiative, six new fully bulk billing GP clinics are expected to open by mid-2027, creating opportunities for General Practitioners looking to establish their careers in some of NSW's most desirable coastal and regional communities.
With $25.3 million committed over three years, the initiative aims to attract approximately 60 additional GPs to the region and deliver around 155,000 bulk billed GP services annually, improving access to affordable primary healthcare for growing communities.
DXC Medical Recruitment is now inviting GPs to register their interest in these upcoming opportunities, with further details about clinic locations, operators and remuneration packages expected to follow.
Supporting the Future of Primary Healthcare
Access to affordable primary healthcare continues to be a challenge for many communities across the Hunter New England and Central Coast Primary Health Network (HNECC PHN) region.
With a population exceeding one million people across the targeted regions, and continued residential growth projected over the coming years, the need for accessible GP services is increasing.
In Newcastle and Lake Macquarie, GP bulk billing rates have been reported at 66.6%, compared with the national average of 81.4%, highlighting the importance of initiatives designed to improve access to affordable healthcare.
The establishment of six new fully bulk billing clinics represents an important investment in strengthening the local primary healthcare workforce and helping more patients access GP services without out-of-pocket costs.
For GPs, it also presents an opportunity to be part of something new, contributing to the development of practices that will support their communities for years to come.
New GP Opportunities | Who Can Register?
DXC Medical Recruitment is seeking expressions of interest from GPs across a range of registration categories and career stages.
Opportunities may be suitable for:
- Vocationally Registered (VR) GPs considering relocating to the Newcastle, Lower Hunter, Lake Macquarie and Central Coast regions.
- GP registrars approaching Fellowship who are exploring their next career opportunity.
- International GPs eligible for the Expedited Specialist Pathway (ESP) or assessed as Substantially Comparable and eligible for the RACGP Practice Experience Program Specialist Stream (PEP SP).
- Non-VR GPs holding General Registration who are eligible for the Pre-Fellowship Program (PFP).
Opportunities are expected to be available in Distribution Priority Areas (DPA), potentially providing additional options for eligible GPs subject to location and pathway requirements.
Whether you're looking to relocate, approaching Fellowship or exploring opportunities to establish your GP career in Australia, we encourage you to get in touch.
Why Consider Joining a New Bulk Billing Clinic?
Joining a newly established medical practice offers a different experience from stepping into an existing clinic.
For GPs who enjoy being involved in the early stages of a practice, it can provide an opportunity to help shape the team, contribute to a positive practice culture and build lasting relationships with patients from the beginning.
These new clinics will also play an important role in supporting communities where access to affordable healthcare is needed.
While individual clinic arrangements are still being finalised, here's what we know so far:
- Six new fully bulk billing GP clinics are planned.
- Clinics are expected to open by mid-2027.
- Opportunities will be located across the Central Coast, Lake Macquarie, Newcastle and Lower Hunter regions.
- Clinic operators are expected to be announced in late 2026.
- Remuneration, potential incentives, relocation assistance and individual practice arrangements will be confirmed by the respective clinic operators.
By registering early, GPs can discuss their preferred locations, career goals and availability with DXC Medical Recruitment and stay informed as further details are announced.
Four Regions. A Wealth of Lifestyle Opportunities.
One of the most appealing aspects of this initiative is the opportunity to live and work in some of NSW's most attractive coastal and regional locations.
Offering a combination of established communities, growing residential areas, beautiful natural surroundings and access to major healthcare facilities, these regions provide plenty of reasons to consider a move.
Central Coast
Located between Sydney and Newcastle, the Central Coast offers a relaxed coastal lifestyle with beautiful beaches, national parks and growing residential communities.
With a population projected to increase by approximately 60,000 residents by 2041, the region is experiencing continued growth, creating demand for essential services, including primary healthcare.
For GPs and their families, the Central Coast offers a combination of coastal living, established schools, shopping centres, outdoor recreation and convenient access to Sydney.
Newcastle
As NSW's second-largest city, Newcastle combines the amenities of a major urban centre with the lifestyle benefits of living by the coast.
Home to beautiful beaches, a vibrant dining scene, excellent schools and major healthcare facilities, Newcastle has become an increasingly attractive destination for healthcare professionals and their families.
With established suburbs, growing communities and a diverse patient population, Newcastle offers opportunities to enjoy a rewarding GP career alongside an enviable coastal lifestyle.
Lake Macquarie
Known for its spectacular waterways, lakeside communities and relaxed atmosphere, Lake Macquarie offers a lifestyle centred around the outdoors.
Located close to Newcastle, the region provides convenient access to major shopping, education and healthcare facilities while retaining its own distinct community feel.
From waterfront suburbs to family-friendly residential neighbourhoods, Lake Macquarie is an appealing option for GPs seeking a balance between professional opportunities and lifestyle.
Lower Hunter
The Lower Hunter region offers a wonderful combination of regional charm, established communities and access to the renowned Hunter Valley.
With picturesque towns, vineyards, open spaces and growing residential areas, the region provides an attractive alternative for GPs seeking a lifestyle outside the larger metropolitan centres.
Its proximity to Newcastle and the broader Hunter region also means residents can enjoy regional living while remaining connected to major services and amenities.
DXC Medical Recruitment | Supporting GPs Through the Process
As part of our involvement in this initiative, DXC Medical Recruitment is engaging with GPs interested in the upcoming opportunities and helping them prepare for the next stage of their careers.
We understand that choosing a new practice, particularly when relocation or specialist pathway requirements are involved, is a significant decision.
Our experienced GP recruitment consultants can discuss your individual circumstances, preferred locations, registration pathway and longer-term career goals.
By connecting with us early, you'll have the opportunity to explore whether these upcoming clinics could be the right fit for you and receive updates as further information becomes available.
Registering your interest is not a formal job application and does not commit you to accepting a position. It's simply an opportunity to start the conversation and stay informed.
Register Your Interest | Be Among the First to Hear About These Opportunities
With clinic operators expected to be announced in late 2026 and openings planned for mid-2027, now is the time to start exploring your options.
Whether you're a VR GP considering a sea change, a registrar approaching Fellowship, or an international GP exploring your next step in Australia, we'd love to hear from you.
Don't wait until the clinics open. Register your interest today and be among the first to receive updates as new opportunities become available.
REGISTER YOUR INTEREST
Alternatively, contact:
Darren Compton | Director
M: +61 405 234 852
E: darren.compton@dxcmedical.com.au
Rory McDonald | Senior Consultant
M: +61 432 960 901
E: rory.mcdonald@dxcmedical.com.au
Sources:
https://www.health.gov.au/ministers/the-hon-mark-butler-mp/media/six-new-bulk-billing-gp-clinics-for-the-central-coast-newcastle-lake-macquarie-and-hunter-region
https://www.health.gov.au/news/2026-27-budget-strengthening-medicare-bulk-billing-investment-in-the-central-coast-newcastle-lake-macquarie-and-hunter-regions
https://www.planning.nsw.gov.au/data-and-resources/population-projections/explore-the-data
https://thephn.com.au/what-we-do/general-practice-support/medicare-bulk-billing-initiative
Clinic locations, operators, remuneration and incentives are subject to confirmation.
