What Is a FIFO GP?
A FIFO GP (Fly-In, Fly-Out General Practitioner) is a doctor who travels to a specific location, most commonly a regional, rural, or remote site to work for a defined period of time, before flying home for an extended break.
FIFO GP roles are commonly found in:
Instead of relocating permanently, FIFO GPs work on structured rosters that provide certainty, balance, and flexibility.
What Does a FIFO GP Actually Do?
The clinical scope varies by site, but FIFO GP work often includes:
Many FIFO roles are well-supported, with clear protocols, nursing teams, on-site equipment, and defined escalation pathways.
The Biggest Drawcard: Flexibility
One of the main reasons GPs choose FIFO work is the ability to design their year around life, not just work.
FIFO rosters can be tailored to suit different lifestyles and career stages, for example:
This structure allows many GPs to:
For some, FIFO becomes a long-term lifestyle choice. For others, it’s a way to work hard for defined periods and enjoy longer breaks in between.
Benefits of Working as a FIFO GP
FIFO GP roles offer higher rates, reflecting the location, roster structure, and scope of practice.
No ongoing patient lists, no after-hours admin, no follow-ups while on leave.
FIFO work offers broad, hands-on experience across acute care, general practice, and occupational health, often in settings where your skills make a direct impact.
You gain the benefits of regional and remote work without uprooting your family or committing to a long-term move.
FIFO suits GPs who value:
Who Is FIFO GP Work Best Suited To?
FIFO GP roles can suit:
The key is matching the right roster and site to your clinical comfort level and lifestyle goals.
Is FIFO GP Work Right for You?
FIFO GP work isn’t about working more, it’s about working differently.
If you like structure, autonomy, and the ability to plan your life months in advance, FIFO can offer a level of freedom that traditional general practice often can’t.
Whether you’re looking to:
FIFO GP work can be a flexible, rewarding option worth considering.
To find out more and explore FIFO opportunities, contact:
Amy Sullivan
Senior Consultant
National Locum GP & Rural Generalist Division
+61 416 370 196
amy.sullivan@dxcmedical.com.au
Locum GPs are the backbone of rural and remote healthcare, especially in regions like the Far West of New South Wales. To better understand the locum experience from a practice perspective, we sat down with Claire Allan, Medical Workforce Consultant at Maari Ma Health Aboriginal Corporation, who shared her reflections on what makes locum work in Broken Hill so rewarding, both for doctors and for the community they serve.
We recently had the opportunity to catch up with Tarun Bh, Practice Manager at NSW Outback Division of General Practice Ltd to learn more about what makes locum GP work in Cobar such a rewarding and valued experience.
