Australia Needs Obstetricians & Gynaecologists – Here's Why UK Specialists Should Consider Making the Move
17 Jul, 20257 mins
Australia’s healthcare system is under increasing pressure to meet the needs of a growing, ageing, and geographically dispersed population. Nowhere is this more evident than in Obstetrics and Gynaecology (O&G)—a critical specialty facing significant workforce shortages across the country.
If you're an O&G specialist in the UK holding a Certificate of Completion of Training (CCT), there’s never been a better time to consider Australia as your next career destination. Here's everything you need to know.
A Shortage That’s Reaching Critical Levels
The demand for obstetric and gynaecological services in Australia is rising sharply due to:
- A growing population, especially in outer metropolitan and regional areas
- Increasing complexity of maternity care (e.g., higher maternal age, comorbidities)
- A large proportion of senior specialists approaching retirement
- Difficulty recruiting and retaining O&Gs in rural and remote locations
According to the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (RANZCOG), many public hospitals are struggling to fill rosters, particularly in smaller cities and regional hubs. This has resulted in increased workloads for existing staff, longer wait times, and at times, service closures.
What Does the Profession Look Like in Australia?
Obstetricians and Gynaecologists in Australia are dual-trained specialists who typically work across:
- Public hospitals (often providing both obstetrics and gynaecology care)
- Private practice (either solely gynaecology, obstetrics, or both)
- Rural locum positions, often with very attractive packages
- Telehealth (mainly for gynaecological consultations)
Most specialists have access to a mix of surgical, medical, and procedural work. Subspecialisation opportunities exist in urogynaecology, oncology, maternal-fetal medicine, and fertility.
Remuneration is generally higher than in the UK, and work-life balance is often significantly improved—especially for those who structure their work across public-private or part-time arrangements.
Key Differences: O&G in Australia vs. the UK
Here’s how the systems compare:
Aspect | Australia | UK |
Training | 6 years through RANZCOG post-medical degree | 7 years (ST1–ST7) under MRCOG pathway |
Regulator | RANZCOG + AHPRA | GMC + RCOG |
Workload | More manageable, fewer night shifts in private | High NHS pressures, burnout risk |
Scope | Wide variety, often dual obstetrics/gynae role | Subspecialisation more common, hospital-based |
Pay | Higher, especially with private or locum roles | NHS banding, often lower by comparison |
Lifestyle | Better work-life balance and more autonomy | High stress and administrative burden in NHS |
A Game-Changer: The Expedited Specialist Pathway for UK-Trained O&Gs
Here’s where it gets exciting for UK consultants.
The RANZCOG and Australian Medical Council (AMC) recognise the high standard of UK training. This means UK-trained O&G specialists with CCT and full MRCOG can apply through the Expedited Specialist Pathway.
What This Means for You:
- Streamlined assessment based on documentation of your UK qualifications and experience
- No need for a full-length supervised practice or examinations
- Eligibility for specialist registration with AHPRA, enabling independent practice
- Fast-tracked Medicare provider number access (essential for private billing)
- Faster pathway to permanent residency or sponsored visas
In short, the red tape is reduced, and the road to working in Australia is clearer and quicker than ever before.
Why You Should Consider the Move
✅ Better Work-Life Balance
Work fewer nights and weekends, and choose from flexible public-private models or part-time work to suit your lifestyle.
✅ Higher Earning Potential
Private O&Gs often earn significantly more than NHS consultants. Locum roles in regional areas come with high daily rates, relocation assistance, and sign-on bonuses.
✅ Greater Autonomy
Enjoy more control over your clinical practice, schedules, and career direction, with less administrative pressure.
✅ Family-Friendly Lifestyle
Australia offers safe cities, world-class schools, and ample outdoor activities. It's a fantastic environment to raise a family.
✅ Demand in Every Region
From major cities like Sydney and Melbourne to smaller centres like Hobart, Townsville, and Darwin—your skills are in demand everywhere.
Where to Start
If you’re ready to take the leap:
- Explore the Expedited Pathway via the RANZCOG Specialist Assessment page
- Review registration details at AHPRA
- Consider working with a recruitment agency that specialises in international placements for medical specialists
Whether you're looking for a lifestyle change, more autonomy, or a more balanced approach to your career, Australia offers a compelling alternative to the overstretched NHS.
The bottom line?
If you're a UK-trained obstetrician and gynaecologist, Australia wants you—and the process has never been more accessible.
If you’re interested in learning more, share your CV with aus@bdiresourcing.com and one of our expert team will be in touch to explore the next steps.
Now is the time to make the move.
