The Royal Australian College of GPs (RACGP) has announced a new Fellowship option for members who have completed the Medical Board of Australia's (MBA) Expedited Specialist Pathway.
Doctors on this pathway will have trained in the UK, Ireland, or New Zealand and already completed training and assessments deemed substantially equivalent to Australian-trained GPs by the MBA.
The change provides these experienced doctors with a professional home in the RACGP, addressing a long-standing gap that left many practising without access to the support, education, and professional networks that Fellowship offers.
RACGP Vice President Dr Ramya Raman said the new pathway would deliver clear benefits to patients and the profession.
"Patients will benefit because GPs who train overseas and meet the MBA's high standards can now connect more fully with the Australian system," she said.
"These doctors are already working safely in our communities. By offering them Fellowship, we can reduce professional isolation, strengthen their connection to Australian standards, and ensure they have access to ongoing education, mentorship, and resources.
"This is about building a stronger, more connected GP workforce – without compromising safety or quality."
Safeguards in place
- Rigorous entry: Only doctors who have passed the MBA's strict assessment process are eligible.
- Standards maintained: Fellowship recognises equivalence – it is not a shortcut and does not reduce RACGP oversight.
- Ongoing support: New Fellows gain access to CPD, supervision opportunities, and evidence-based resources.
- Patient safety first: Orientation and mentorship supports ensure safe integration into Australian general practice.
Dr Raman said the pathway reinforced the RACGP's role as the professional home for all GPs in Australia.
"General practice is at the heart of our health system," she said.
"We need every GP who is practising safely in Australia to feel supported, valued, and connected. That's what this initiative is about – stronger care for patients, and a stronger profession for the future."
The RACGP Vice President also emphasised the College's ongoing commitment to monitoring and evaluation.
"We'll continue to monitor the expedited pathway and consult with the Medical Board and Government to ensure evaluation remains rigorous and upholds Australian standards, and if issues arise, they are promptly addressed," she said.
