Relocation Checklist for UK Doctors Moving to Australia

Complete practical guide for UK doctors moving to Australia

Before You Leave the UK

Essential Pre-Departure Checklist
  • Activate AHPRA In Principle Approval - Ensure your registration is ready
  • Secure your visa and job contract - All paperwork finalized
  • Arrange medical indemnity insurance - Can be organised in Australia
  • Book flights and short-term accommodation - First few weeks sorted
Tip: Having all documentation ready before departure will make your arrival much smoother.

On Arrival in Australia

First Week Priorities
  • Present at an AHPRA office to finalise registration
  • Open an Australian bank account for salary and expenses
  • Apply for a Tax File Number (TFN) - essential for work
  • Register with Medicare if eligible for healthcare access

Settling In

Longer-term Settlement Tasks
  • Find long-term accommodation near your workplace
  • Join professional networks or British medical groups in your area
  • Explore local CME/CPD requirements for ongoing registration

Housing and Accommodation

  • Serviced apartments: Fully furnished, utilities included
  • Extended stay hotels: Good for family relocations
  • Airbnb: Flexible dates, various locations
  • Corporate housing: Often arranged by employers

Popular Websites:
  • Domain.com.au
  • Realestate.com.au
  • Rent.com.au
Application Process:
  • Submit application forms
  • Provide references (employer, previous landlord)
  • Pay bond (usually 4 weeks' rent)
  • Rent in advance (2-4 weeks)

Sydney:
  • North Shore (hospitals)
  • Eastern Suburbs (lifestyle)
  • Inner West (trendy)
Melbourne:
  • Inner suburbs (Fitzroy, Carlton)
  • Bayside (family-friendly)
  • Eastern suburbs (good schools)

Transportation

Buying a Car
  • Get international driving permit before arrival
  • Convert UK license within 3 months
  • Consider certified used cars for reliability
  • Budget for registration, insurance, CTP
Popular sites: Carsales.com.au, Drive.com.au
Public Transport
  • Sydney: Opal card system
  • Melbourne: Myki card system
  • Brisbane: Go card system
  • Perth: SmartRider system
Many cities have excellent public transport networks

Healthcare and Insurance

Medicare Registration:
  • Essential for working in healthcare
  • Apply within 3 months of arrival
  • Provides access to public healthcare
  • Some reciprocal agreements with UK
Private Health Insurance:
  • Recommended for faster access
  • Tax benefits if earning over $90k
  • Compare providers: Medibank, Bupa, HCF
  • Consider waiting periods

Education and Schools

For Families with Children:
  • Public schools: Free, good quality, catchment areas apply
  • Private schools: Fees vary ($5k-$40k annually)
  • International schools: Familiar curricula for transitioning
  • Enrolment: Start early, especially for popular schools
School Terms: Australian school year runs January-December with 4 terms.

Professional Networking

Building Professional Networks:
  • Medical colleges: Join relevant specialty colleges
  • Local medical associations: State-based doctor groups
  • Hospital departments: Attend departmental meetings
  • Social events: Medical conferences and social functions
  • UK doctor groups: Many cities have UK expatriate medical communities

Cultural Adaptation

Workplace Culture:
  • More casual and egalitarian
  • Work-life balance prioritized
  • Direct communication style
  • Team-based approach
Social Culture:
  • Outdoor lifestyle emphasis
  • BBQ and beach culture
  • Sports-oriented society
  • Multicultural environment
Pro Tip: Many UK doctors choose to try regional or coastal areas first — these locations often offer higher pay and better visa incentives.
Ready to Start Your Australian Medical Career?
Contact Us
First Month Checklist
Useful Resources
Services Australia

Medicare, TFN, Centrelink services

Visit Services Australia
Australian Taxation Office

Tax file number and tax information

Visit ATO
Continue Your Journey
AHPRA Guide Visa Options Contact Us
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