Who joined you on your move and where you decided to make your new home in Australia?
I moved here with my partner, after deciding we wanted to see what living in Australia was like. We were deciding between Sydney and Melbourne, she is a teacher and we wanted to be somewhere we could both work and explore. We decided on Melbourne to allow us to live in the city without having to travel too far out to get to work.
Why did you want to move to Australia?
I had always wanted to work in another country, and Australia looked to be a place I could work as a GP in a different system to the NHS. I also wanted to use the opportunity to explore other parts of the world, so going halfway across the globe seemed a good start.
What was the most challenging part of the move?
The admin side of applying to get onto the RACGP specialist pathway was a real saga. They brought out the expedited pathway halfway through my process and I’d already started the old pathway, so I tried to finish that application. It became apparent they were making it very difficult to get onto the old pathway, so after a few months we decided to switch to the expedited pathway.
How did Alecto assist you in the process and how did you find working with the Alecto team?
Alecto were really helpful when we were struggling with the old application. They could see the issues facing us and gave useful insights that helped me make the decision to switch. They were very accommodating in organising calls or responding to messages at times when the time difference made it trickier. They were professional and helpful throughout the process.
Is there anything the Alecto team could have done differently / better to assist you with the transition?
No, I feel Alecto really made the effort to meet up and offered support with lifestyle transitions and settling in. They were proactive in seeking feedback and checking in, and I really enjoyed the dinner they organised to allow us to meet up with similar ex-pats.
Now that you’re here, what are the main benefits of living and working in Australia?
The work is far more adaptable to what suits you. There are many different styles of GP practice, but with the flexibility in selecting working days and patient numbers etc., you have a lot of control in building your chosen way of working. Outside of work, there is so much to explore and a world to travel.
How would you summarise the key differences between working in Australia and working in your home country?
I would say that the patients are very similar, but the systems/ structure are very different. Adjusting from the NHS system to a mixed private/public system has its challenges; it can be difficult seeing patients without access to private healthcare getting a worse experience than those who can afford it. However, working in a bulk billing practice means you offer a service that is free to the patient and you can help everyone. In terms of your role as the GP, you do get access to more in terms of investigations and referrals, and you can take a more active role in certain aspects of care because of this. Patients have the ability to choose which GP they see, and it is rewarding when you build up a patient body that has a relationship with you and wants to see you.
What advice would you give to GPs considering moving to Australia?
It is certainly something I would recommend trying, if you have the time and availability. The process is a bit long and at times arduous, but it is rewarding on the other side. Whether you are looking at a temporary move or longer term, experiencing a different healthcare system is an interesting new challenge, and gives valuable insights. There’s plenty of opportunity to mould your work to your preferences, and to use your free time to see a vastly different part of the world.
Why Dr Daniel decided to move from the UK and work as a GP in Australia
With increasing challenges in the NHS and a desire for a fresh start, Dr Daniel (a UK-based GP) and his family took the leap to begin a new life in Australia.
This case study highlights his motivations, challenges, and experiences in making the move, including navigating complex immigration paperwork and settling into life in Melbourne. It also explores the support provided by Alecto Australia, from arranging job meetings to offering guidance through every step of the process.
Discover how he found a better work-life balance, embraced the differences in healthcare systems, and uncovered unexpected benefits like a vibrant lifestyle and a less stressful work environment. If you’re considering a similar move, their story offers practical advice and inspiration.
Why did you decide to come to Australia?
Working in the NHS seemed to be becoming tougher and tougher, and as a GP who mainly worked in Locum jobs I could see the work available starting to dwindle. My family and I had always considered moving abroad and this seemed like a perfect opportunity to seize the day and make the leap.
What was the most challenging part of the move?
The paperwork! Australian immigration is infamous for the amount of paperwork involved and hoops to jump but I think I truly underestimated it until I was doing it.
What were the most helpful things our team did to help you?
Alecto were incredibly helpful from start to finish. First of all arranging meeting with employers and then going forward and helping with all the paperwork involved. I honestly am not sure I’d have managed without them. At each step of the way they explained the next steps and helped me make sure I was doing all that I needed to do.
Once I arrived they checked in on me to make sure I was settling in well and put me in contact with other local doctors who had moved from the UK. They were and continue to be incredible.
Were there any pleasant surprises along the way?
Everyone warned us the cost of living is more expensive in Australia but we’ve actually found it very comparable, with many things being much cheaper in our situation, such as fuel and energy costs.
We love Melbourne. There is so much to do an explore and having so much to do on our doorstep is amazing. We find it quite an easy city to get around and it has amazing coffee and restaurant cultures. There is a lot to do for small children and we’ve made friends with people quite easily.
I’ve also found the work a lot less stressful than UK General Practice. There is a work-hard play-hard attitude in Australia but you have much more control over what you do.
How would you summarise the key differences between working in Australia and working in your home country?
There are a few differences, most of which come with their own benefits and challenges. The healthcare system is quite different from the UK and getting your head around billings and the public vs. private systems can take some time. I know others have found this an ethical challenge too compared to the UK but if you value your time and expertise this is not really a problem.
I feel much more autonomous as a clinician and have much easier access to tests, particularly radiology, than in the UK and this has made caring for my patients much easier, however GPs do much more of the work themselves with less reliance on specialist nurses (such as Asthma/Diabetes nurses for example).
There is also much more scope to have special interests and market yourself that way. I have a couple of special interests but in the UK did not have much opportunity to do them, however in Australia patients travel to see me based on my experience and expertise which gives great job satisfaction.
What advice would you give to doctors contemplating the move to Australia?
Honestly, if you are contemplating it, do it. You have so little to lose. It is great seeing another part of the world and another healthcare system. I feel like I have learned so much already and feel so glad we took the leap. It has been difficult but now we are settled we are just enjoying our new lives. We earn well, have made good friends and spend time seeing the sights of a great city and country. The weather doesn’t hurt either.
What inspired Dr Simpson to make the move from Malaysia
Who joined you on your move and where you decided to make your new home in Australia?
I moved to Australia on my own to continue my career as a General Practitioner. I chose Melbourne for its strong healthcare system, diverse community, and quality of life, and I’m now building my long-term home here.
Why did you want to move to Australia?
I wanted to move to Australia for better professional opportunities as a GP, a strong and well-structured healthcare system, and a better quality of life. It offered the right balance between career growth and personal lifestyle, which made it the right place to build my long-term future.
What was the most challenging part of the move?
The most challenging part was leaving behind my established career, friends, and familiarity, and starting again in a new healthcare system. Adjusting to different regulations, rebuilding a patient base, and settling into a new environment required resilience, but it has been a rewarding journey.
How did Alecto assist you in the process and how did you find working with the Alecto team?
Alecto guided me through the entire relocation process, from securing the right practice to navigating contracts and onboarding. The team was responsive, supportive, and transparent, which made a complex transition much smoother.
Is there anything the Alecto team could have done differently / better to assist you with the transition?
Clearer upfront timelines around visa processing and registration milestones may have helped set expectations even better, but I was well supported throughout the process.
Now that you’re here, what are the main benefits of living and working in Australia?
The main benefits are the strong and well-supported healthcare system, professional autonomy as a GP, and better work–life balance. Outside of work, Australia offers a high quality of life, safety, and a diverse, welcoming community.
How would you summarise the key differences between working in Australia and working in your home country?
In Australia, there is greater emphasis on structured primary care, clear guidelines, and continuity of care. GPs have strong clinical independence and access to good referral networks and allied health support. The work culture also promotes balance and wellbeing, which makes a significant difference both professionally and personally.
What advice would you give to GPs considering moving to Australia?
Do your research early, particularly around registration, visa pathways, and Medicare. Be prepared for some administrative complexity, but stay patient and resilient. Once you’re here, the professional opportunities, clinical autonomy, and quality of life make the transition worthwhile.
How Dr Nav Sandhu made the move to Australia from the UK
Who joined you on your move and where you decided to make your new home in Australia?
I studied medicine in London and completed GP training in Southampton. My adventurous and sunshine chasing wife Charlotte crystallised the idea of moving to Australia. We relocated to Melbourne and we love it!
Why did you want to move to Australia?
We came for the mythical, but evidently attainable “work life balance”. The beaches were the icing on the cake.
What was the most challenging part of the move?
Knowing what you are leaving behind without knowing what you will gain in return.
How did Alecto assist you in the process and how did you find working with the Alecto team?
Martina and her team were instrumental in allowing us to navigate through the visa application process. Every step of the way was guided by their knowledgeable advice. The Alecto team was highly responsive to all of our enquiries.
Is there anything the Alecto team could have done differently / better to assist you with the transition?
The Alecto team were professional throughout. They were there to propel me through my bouts of procrastination along the visa application. Barring a kick up the backside, there is little more they could have done.
Now that you’re here, what are the main benefits of living and working in Australia?
So it turns out that the “work life balance” is a splendid reality! Being able to go exploring and camping around some of the most beautiful parts of Australia whilst also seeing my patients on a Monday morning is rather surreal. The geographical beauty of Australia along with its population density often means that you’ll find yourself in a breathtakingly beautiful landscape with no one other than yourself and your family to admire it.
How would you summarise the key differences between working in Australia and working in your home country?
In Australia a doctor is rewarded for the work and effort they put into treating a patient.
In my experience a GP in the NHS persistently has a significantly higher burden of care without the same amount of clinical and financial support.
What advice would you give to GPs considering moving to Australia?
It is a bold and brave step. Tears will be shed. But ultimately it is a decision that will likely benefit you and your family for generations to come.
Why Dr Elizabeth came to Australia
Ten years ago, Dr Elizabeth (a UK GP) made the life-changing decision to move from Scotland to Brisbane with the support of the Alecto team. A decade later, she reflects on what led to the move, the highs and lows along the way, and why she’s never looked back.
Why did you decide to come to Australia?
“It was actually my husband’s idea initially,” Elizabeth shares. “We’d experienced two close family bereavements in the space of six months, and I found myself struggling afterwards. I knew I needed a change, but I wasn’t sure what that looked like.”
After exploring the idea of relocating to Australia, things quickly shifted. “Once we started looking into it, we couldn’t look back—we just got so excited about the possibility of living down under.”
What was the most challenging part of the move?
“There were so many,” she admits with a laugh. “I had to complete my MRCGP in order to be eligible, so that meant four to six months of solid study on top of my usual workload. Leaving our friends and family behind was heartbreaking, and convincing our youngest child that this was a good idea took some time—though thankfully, he came around.”
How did Alecto support you through the move?
“All the genuine support and care from Alecto was just amazing,” says Elizabeth. “Paul was always at the end of the phone—calming my nerves, offering advice, and just being there when I needed to talk things through.”
The support continued once she connected with Monique in the lead-up to their departure.
“My journey wasn’t straightforward—RACGP nearly didn’t accept my portfolio MRCGP, and when we arrived, we ran into complications with the workforce shortage area requirements. But both Paul and Monique were incredible throughout. I always felt like I had someone holding my hand, which made all the difference.”
Were there any pleasant surprises along the way?
“I was amazed at how quickly practices in Australia responded once I started applying,” she says. “There were so many options for roles and locations, which was really encouraging. But what really stood out was how human the Alecto team were. You could tell they genuinely cared—not just about my career, but about my family too.”
How would you summarise the key differences between working in Australia and working in your home country?
“For me, the work-life balance is so much better. I really enjoy working in a corporate-style practice because I don’t need to worry about running the business or managing staff. The biggest change, though? No house calls—which I definitely don’t miss!”
“And of course, heading to work with the sun shining almost every day is a huge mood booster. I feel much more in control of my day here compared to the UK.”
What advice would you give to doctors contemplating the move to Australia?
“Just do it—you won’t regret it!” she says without hesitation. “Australia is such an incredible country to live in. Sunshine, beaches, mountains, vibrant cities—it’s all here. Embrace everything and you’ll soon fall in love with it.”
Now proud Aussie citizens, Dr Elizabeth and her family call themselves “Scauzzies”—a nod to their Scottish roots.
“Our sons were 11 and 17 when we made the move, so a bit older than most children in this situation. But they settled in beautifully within six months and now wouldn’t even think about going back to the UK. They’ve both had the opportunity to attend university here, which likely wouldn’t have been possible otherwise.”
“For our family, this move has been the best thing we ever did. Life here is wonderful—and we’re looking forward to many more holidays, adventures, and sunny days ahead in this beautiful country.”
How Dr Xisco made the move to Australia from Spain
Who joined you on your move and where you decided to make your new home in Australia?
I am a specialist GP in Spain an I started this adventure alone. It has definitely been an amazing growing experience personally and professionally with tough moments (migrating is never easy) but after 4 years in this country, I have finally found my place in Melbourne and I would definitely do it all over again if I had to.
Why did you want to move to Australia?
I wanted to get out of my comfort zone, experience a different culture and see some kangaroos!
What was the most challenging part of the move?
Adapting to a new country, new healthcare system, new culture while stabilising your social network and navigating the PEP specialist program requirements.
How did Alecto assist you in the process and how did you find working with the Alecto team?
Alecto linked me with both practices I worked in Australia and guided me step by step to get me to Australia from Spain. They support you in every aspect of the journey and they link you with the best possible practice that matches not only your medical approach so you can thrive as a GP but also the best work environment for you.
Is there anything the Alecto team could have done differently / better to assist you with the transition?
I don’t think they could have done it better.
Now that you’re here, what are the main benefits of living and working in Australia?
The quality of life and the respect from patients and practices.
How would you summarise the key differences between working in Australia and working in your home country?
I could write an essay of how different it is here in terms of conditions but I guess that the most important aspect is that here you have your own business and you can run it however you want. You can also chose the scope you want and specialize in many things that we could not do in Spain. Another big difference is that Spain is a public system and you are not rewarded by seeing 50 people a day on those days that are chaotic and stressful while here, the harder you work, the greater the reward.
What advice would you give to GPs considering moving to Australia?
Just do it. The quality of life you can get here is difficult to compare and coming from Mallorca is a big say.
How Dr Sam Moved from Malaysia to Australia as a GP
Who joined you on your move and where you decided to make your new home in Australia?
I have been working as a GP for several years now, and I wanted to move to Perth. My family moved with me.
Why did you want to move to Australia?
I was interested in the new working environment and to support the local community here in my new place.
What was the most challenging part of the move?
The challenging part was the distance from friends, family and relatives.
How did Alecto assist you in the process and how did you find working with the Alecto team?
Alecto has been very supportive, and guided me with my paperwork on the move, and for the job search, and even ensured the whole process was as smooth as possible. Good job to Monique, Louise, Erika and the rest of the team.
Now that you’re here, what are the main benefits of living and working in Australia?
Work life balance here is very good.
How would you summarise the key differences between working in Australia and working in your home country?
Take your time to consider the pros and cons of moving, and its a wonderful opportunity to really consider it.
Dr Pia’s journey from the UK to Australia
Who joined you on your move and where you decided to make your new home in Australia?
Melbourne. It’s been a journey! I came just before covid and ended up being alone without my partner for over a year due to border closures.
Why did you want to move to Australia?
I’ve always wanted to work abroad and the landscape at home was challenging.
What was the most challenging part of the move?
A new system and leaving family and friends behind.
How did Alecto assist you in the process and how did you find working with the Alecto team?
Martina was amazing! She Found the fit I asked for.
Is there anything the Alecto team could have done differently / better to assist you with the transition?
More networking with new doctors.
Now that you’re here, what are the main benefits of living and working in Australia?
Autonomy, pay and lifestyle.
How would you summarise the key differences between working in Australia and working in your home country?
I can choose my hours, days, appointment preferences… everything!
What advice would you give to GPs considering moving to Australia?
DO IT! NOW! You wont look back. I was supposed to be here on a temporary work visa… 7 years later and I haven’t looked back.
Why Dr Shim made the move to Australia from the UK
Who joined you on your move and where you decided to make your new home in Australia?
My husband joined me in Melbourne.
Why did you want to move to Australia?
To try a different healthcare system, have a better work-life balance and increased autonomy.
What was the most challenging part of the move?
Leaving family and friends.
How did Alecto assist you in the process and how did you find working with the Alecto team?
Amazing process!. I appreciated how Martina asked what I wanted out of a practice. She understands what lifestyle I wanted and placed me in a practice which supported this.
Is there anything the Alecto team could have done differently / better to assist you with the transition?
No, I was happy with the entire process.
Now that you’re here, what are the main benefits of living and working in Australia?
Flexibility with how much you choose to work, freedom to pursue your interests and being able to upskill in areas that interest you.
How would you summarise the key differences between working in Australia and working in your home country?
Increased autonomy, better work life balance, no home visits and the ability to actually be a family doctor.
What advice would you give to GPs considering moving to Australia?
Move sooner rather than later! Make sure the practice is right for you.
Why Dr Michael moved to Australia
Michael’s move to Australia began as a working holiday as a GP, inspired by other GPs from England.
Michael’s journey to Australia started in 2018, while his wife completed a fellowship. After returning home, they decided to make Australia their permanent home in 2022.
Why did you decide to come to Australia?
When we first came to Australia, a lot of GPs were coming over from England just for a year just to see what it’s like and have a bit of a working holiday. We very quickly realised that working Australia and living in Australia was a pretty amazing experience and decided to stay.
What was the most challenging part of the move?
There is a lot of logistics involved in moving from England to Australia. Even though we didn’t have to do any exams to come over the whole process was quite lengthy and complicated and we were actually really happy to have Alecto there to help us out with the process.
What were the most helpful things our team did to help you?
I remember getting a timeline which helped set expectations about how long the process will take. It was also great having a chat with them and finding out what it’s like to work in Australia and they also found a brilliant clinic for me that I am still in today.
Were there any pleasant surprises along the way?
There were so many pleasant surprises along the way. Overall though I would say that most of them were related to the worklife balance that you can get from working in Australia and the fun things you can do on your days off here.
How would you summarise the key differences between working in Australia and working in your home country?
I feel like in Australia I have a lot more control over how I set up my clinics and also over the patient cohort that I treat. I feel I have a lot of independence in deciding which patients I want to continue with and which patients I don’t want to continue with. I can also decide if I want to have random days off for various reasons and don’t necessarily have to worry about securing cover as we are here as independent contractors. The thing that I miss about England is other medical practitioners adherence to guidelines. I feel it is often the case that certain doctors at the clinics will prescribe certain medications or do things slightly differently to the guidelines that we use , and that can be confusing for patience when they come in for their prescriptions.
What advice would you give to doctors contemplating the move to Australia?
I remember watching a webinar from the RACGP, which is the college for general practitioners here in Australia. It was about coming over to Australia as an IMG. I thought it was interesting that they actually recommended to use an agency to help with all the administrative work. So that would effectively be your first step.
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