If you’re a specialist doctor planning a move to Australia, it’s now more important than ever to understand the available registration options. Many employers now request that candidates already hold an Australian College assessment outcome or apply through AHPRA’s Expedited Specialist Pathway before progressing job applications.
In this guide, we explain your pathway choices and how Head Medical can support you in securing your college outcome quickly and smoothly.
The Expedited Specialist Pathway Explained
The new Expedited Specialist Pathway offers a streamlined route into practice for:
This pathway removes the need for a costly College assessment, making relocation more achievable and efficient.
Key Benefits
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No job offer required to apply
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Faster and more affordable than traditional routes
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Overseas qualifications recognised as equivalent
More medical specialties are expected to be added soon, widening access further.
Streamlined & Accelerated Pathways
If you're not eligible for the expedited option, accelerated pathways are now available through several specialist colleges.
Accelerated Specialist Pathway – Medicine
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For consultants from the UK, Ireland, India, Hong Kong and Sri Lanka
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Current processing time: approx. 6 weeks
RANZCP Accelerated Pathway – Psychiatry
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For psychiatrists with MRCPsych (UK) + CCT/CCST
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Less documentation and faster recognition
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Current processing time: approx. 9 weeks
Standard Specialist Pathway
If you don’t meet eligibility for accelerated routes, the standard Specialist Pathway remains available — and you can apply to any specialist college without a job offer.
Why Securing a College Outcome Matters
Holding an Australian College outcome significantly enhances your relocation and employment prospects by:
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Making you more competitive for specialist roles
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Allowing employers to understand supervision requirements
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Speeding up registration and visa processing
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Demonstrating commitment to working in Australia
How Head Medical Can Help You
At Head Medical, our dedicated Registration & Compliance Team assists you throughout the entire process:
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Identifying the correct pathway for your specialty and background
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Preparing documentation and applications
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Liaising with AHPRA and specialist colleges
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Providing tailored relocation and registration guidance
We streamline your journey and support you every step of the way.
Need Help With Your Visa?
Alongside our registration services, our sister company Head Immigration offers expert migration support.
Receive advice and guidance from our Licensed Migration Adviser for Australia:
Eilidh Angus - Head Immigration
Visit: www.headimmigration.com
Ready to Start Your Move to Australia?
We're here to support you every step of the way.
Contact Head Medical:
Email:
sharon@headmedical.com
karenp@headmedical.com
Phone: 0131 226 2200
Start your journey to working as a specialist doctor in Australia today - we’d love to help you take the next step.