In the last week of December 2022, the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA) announced that it will expedite the review of applications from International Medical Graduates (IMGs) seeking employment in Australia. This news has been welcomed by the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP) and the Australian College of Rural and Remote Medicine (ACRRM).
Generally, this move is to address the workforce shortage in the country, especially during this time of the pandemic. Moreover, as is well known, international doctors with AHPRA registration can apply for New Zealand registration. But, for interested International Medical Graduates, what really are the reasons for them to work and move to Australia or New Zealand?
1.) Safe Community
Based on World Population Review, Australia ranks 27th among the safest countries in the world. But, New Zealand, its ranking is second! This is confirmed by the Global Peace Index where, in 2020, New Zealand is characterised by a sense of safety, the absence of continuous violence, and a lack of militarisation.
What's more, medical doctors planning to practice in NZ can hike or go bushwalking throughout the country without worrying about being bitten by something, being burnt in 40-degree heat, or discovering huge spiders inside their sneakers!
2.) Friendly Climate
Australia is known for its hot weather, especially during summer when the climate is at its peak. But, for medical graduates who wish to move to a warm place, Australia is a great choice.
On the other hand, New Zealand is a fantastic area to live in if medical doctors like the diversity of weather. Due to the country's size, each end has a very diverse climate, ranging from the warm Northland to the Southland's snowy winters and cool seaside winds.
3.) Justifiable Cost of Living
Although the cost of living in Australia and New Zealand is for average earners, it is said that these costs are justifiable. According to World Remit, the average cost of living for both countries for a single person lies at around USD 2,500 per month.
Although these costs may seem relatively high, they are balanced out by the nation's higher-than-average incomes, which are AU $4,062 per month.
4.) Diversified Tourism
For just about every type of traveller, New Zealand and Australia have something to offer. There is something for everyone. During day offs or even break times, medical doctors can enjoy the astonishing views these countries have.
If we compare, tourist sites are more easily accessible in New Zealand than in Australia. In the former, a weekend can be spent driving from 150-meter-tall sand dunes to Hobbiton from "The Lord of the Rings," geothermal steam vents, ski areas, and gorgeous wine regions.
5.) Better Welfare
Everyone wishes to get a better quality of life for themselves and for their families. For medical doctors, this is possible in any of the two countries. Although they both offer dynamic living, each country ensures a stable but enjoyable lifestyle for all.
Moving to Australia or New Zealand is a great opportunity not just for practising your profession but for improving your life as well. If you wish to work in NZ or AUS, Medical Recruitment can help you out. Here, we do not just value you and your interests but we can also help you achieve your full potential by helping you find the most competitive short-term and locum job opportunities while you are in any of these two countries.
Since 1986, Medical Recruitment has been specialising in GP recruitment, thus, consultants from the company have expert knowledge in the space. If you’re looking for an exciting opportunity to work as a permanent or locum GP job or even for a GP role after hours, then look no further - get in touch with our Recruitment Consultants now.
