Australia Needs Obstetricians and Gynaecologists—Here’s How You Can Help
Australia is facing a growing shortage of specialist doctors—especially in obstetrics and gynaecology. With increasing demand for women’s health services across both urban and regional areas, there’s never been a better time for overseas-trained obstetricians and gynaecologists to consider making the move. To support this demand, the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA) has introduced a new Expedited Specialist Pathway. This process makes it faster and easier for experienced international specialists to register and start working in consultant obstetrician and gynaecologist jobs in Australia.
What Is the AHPRA Expedited Specialist Pathway?
The Expedited Specialist Pathway is a new AHPRA-administered process for eligible overseas-trained specialists. It allows for direct registration with AHPRA—without requiring an assessment by the relevant specialist college (e.g. RANZCOG) or any exams.
It’s designed for doctors whose qualifications and experience closely match Australian standards and who are coming from comparable health systems such as the UK or Ireland.
Key Benefits of the Expedited Pathway
Faster processing times for registration
No requirement for college assessment or exams
Simplified documentation
Clearer expectations and timelines
Registration with AHPRA from the outset, with six months of supervised practice
Pathway to full, unrestricted specialist registration
Who Is Eligible?
You may be eligible for this pathway if you:
Hold a recognised specialist qualification in obstetrics and gynaecology
Completed your training in a comparable healthcare system (e.g. UK, Ireland)
Have recent and relevant clinical experience
Can demonstrate English language proficiency, if applicable
Have a confirmed job offer in Australia with a supervision plan in place
This pathway currently applies only to specific qualifications from a shortlist of countries accepted by AHPRA. More details are available on the AHPRA website.
Step-by-Step Guide to the AHPRA Expedited Specialist Pathway
Step 1 – Confirm Eligibility
Check that your specialist qualification is from an approved country and listed under AHPRA’s Expedited Specialist Registration Pathway.
Step 2 – Secure a Job Offer and Supervision
Obtain employment with an Australian healthcare provider. Your employer must support a 6 month supervision plan as part of the application.
Step 3 – Gather Documentation
Prepare:
Proof of specialist qualification and registration
Valid ID and professional references
A structured supervised practice plan with your employer
Step 4 – Submit Your Application
Apply online through AHPRA’s expedited specialist pathway portal. Upload all documents and pay the application fee.
Step 5 – Receive Conditional Registration
If approved, you’ll receive conditional specialist registration that allows you to start working under supervision in Australia.
Step 6 – Complete Six Months of Supervised Practice
During this period, you’ll:
Follow your approved supervision plan
Complete workplace-based assessments, including multisource feedback and at least one additional assessment
Submit supervisor reports at the 3-month and 6-month marks
Step 7 – Orientation and Cultural Safety Education
Complete the mandatory AHPRA modules covering the Australian health system and cultural safety in practice.
Step 8 – Apply to Remove Conditions
Once your supervised period is complete and all assessments are submitted, you can apply to AHPRA to remove the registration conditions and gain full, unconditional registration.
Step 9 – (Optional) Apply for Fellowship
While not required for AHPRA registration, some specialists may later apply for Fellowship with RANZCOG for added professional benefits.
FAQs About the AHPRA Expedited Pathway
Do I need to sit exams or be assessed by RANZCOG?
No. The expedited pathway does not involve the college or any exams. It’s a direct assessment by AHPRA.
Can I get full registration immediately?
Not quite—initially, you’ll receive conditional registration with six months of supervised practice. After that, you can apply for full registration but you will have access to full billing rates.
Can I apply without a job offer?
No. A job offer and supervision plan are mandatory to be eligible for this pathway.
What countries are considered comparable?
Currently, the UK and Ireland are included, but check the AHPRA website for the latest list.
How Alecto Australia Can Help
At Alecto, we specialise in helping international medical specialists navigate the registration and relocation process to Australia.
We can assist with:
Finding consultant obstetrician and gynaecologist jobs in public or private healthcare
Ensuring your supervision plan meets AHPRA’s standards
Supporting your visa application and transition to practice
Guiding you through each step of the expedited registration process
Our clients include health services across Australia that are actively recruiting overseas-trained obstetricians.
Final Thoughts
With strong demand, a clear registration process, and an excellent quality of life, Australia offers a compelling opportunity for overseas-trained obstetricians and gynaecologists. The AHPRA expedited pathway provides a fast, exam-free route to registration—so you can start making a difference in Australian healthcare sooner.
Ready to take the next step on the AHPRA Expedited Specialist Pathway
Contact Alecto Australia to discuss your eligibility and available opportunities. We’re here to support you every step of the way.