Did you know that Australia is the only country in the world with two specialist colleges for General Practice?
This unique structure means double the opportunities for both domestic and international doctors seeking a career in general practice.
The two colleges are:
Together, they play a vital role in shaping the GP workforce across Australia, from major metropolitan areas to the most remote communities.
The RACGP: Supporting GPs Nationwide
Founded in 1958, the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP) is Australia’s largest GP college, with more than 40,000 members. Its mission is “to improve the health and wellbeing of all Australians by supporting GPs.”
The RACGP provides a range of training and fellowship programs designed to help doctors achieve specialist recognition in general practice. These programs cater to both Australian-trained doctors and International Medical Graduates (IMGs) with overseas qualifications.
RACGP Training Pathways
The ACRRM: Dedicated to Rural and Remote Practice
Established in 1997, the Australian College of Rural and Remote Medicine (ACRRM) was formed by a group of rural doctors who wanted a college dedicated specifically to rural and remote healthcare.
With approximately 4,500 members, ACRRM plays a crucial role in supporting doctors working in regional and remote communities, ensuring that rural Australians have access to high-quality primary care.
ACRRM Training Pathways
Other Accredited GP Training Options
Both RACGP and ACRRM are accredited by the Australian Medical Council (AMC) to deliver specialist GP training.
In addition to their college-based pathways, several national training programs help doctors gain the experience required for Fellowship and work readiness in general practice:
It provides an important bridging pathway for doctors who are not yet eligible for a fellowship training program, allowing them to work in approved rural practices under supervision while gaining the necessary skills and experience.
Learn more
Fellowship Outcomes: FRACGP, FACRRM, FRACGP-RG
Both RACGP and ACRRM pathways lead to specialist GP recognition in Australia.
Upon successful completion of training and assessment, doctors achieve Fellowship, FRACGP (Fellow of the RACGP) or FACRRM (Fellow of the ACRRM), FRACGP-RG (Fellow of the RACGP – Rural Generalist) which grants access to A1 Medicare billing rates and the ability to work independently as a recognised GP specialist.
Who We Help
At DXC Medical Recruitment, we specialise in both Specialist GP and Non-VR recruitment, assisting doctors and practices Australia-wide.
Whether you are:
Our team provides honest, informed guidance on the right pathway and placement to suit your goals.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
If you’re considering a move into general practice, or planning to relocate your GP career to Australia, our experienced consultants are here to help.
Let us guide you through the process, from pathway selection to securing the perfect role.
Contact the DXC Medical team today for a confidential discussion about your options.
Adelene Chew
Senior Consultant
+61 430 037 389
adelene.chew@dxcmedical.com.au
Remote Vocational Training Scheme (RVTS) is a national training program for medical practitioners seeking General Practice and Rural Generalist Fellowship. RVTS delivers distance training and remote supervision to doctors in rural, remote, and First Nations communities across Australia, as well as Aboriginal Medical Services.
Since launching in 2023, the RACGP’s Fellowship Support Program (FSP) has become one of the most accessible and structured 3GA training programs available to non-VR GPs seeking Fellowship of the RACGP (FRACGP). With several intakes now complete and additional support mechanisms in place, it's a great time to revisit the key aspects of the program that both applicants and practices should understand.
