Choosing the Right GP Pathway in Australia: Expedited Specialist vs PEP Specialist Stream

Choosing the Right GP Pathway in Australia: Expedited Specialist vs PEP Specialist Stream

If you’re an overseas-trained GP planning a move to Australia, one of the first major decisions is choosing the correct registration pathway. For Specialist International Medical Graduates (SIMGs), the two most common options are the Expedited Specialist Pathway and the RACGP-led PEP Specialist Stream.

Both routes allow you to work as a GP in Australia — but they differ in eligibility, cost, timeframe and long-term outcomes. This guide breaks down the key differences so you can choose the pathway that aligns best with your qualifications and career goals.

Two Different Routes to GP Registration

Australia recognises that GPs come from a wide variety of training systems around the world, so the country offers two distinct ways to enter specialist practice:

1. The Expedited Specialist Pathway

This is a fast-track option for GPs from countries whose training is already highly aligned with Australian standards — specifically the UK, Ireland and New Zealand.

It is designed for doctors who have completed recognised specialist GP training programs such as:

• MRCGP + CCT in the UK
• MICGP + CSCST in Ireland
• FRNZCGP under the New Zealand GPEP curriculum

If you meet one of these criteria, you can apply directly for Specialist Registration with AHPRA, complete a short period of supervision, and begin practising relatively quickly.

2. The PEP Specialist Stream (RACGP)

This pathway is for GPs whose qualifications aren’t eligible for the expedited route, or for those who want a structured program leading directly to Fellowship of the RACGP (FRACGP).

It involves a formal comparability assessment, supervised practice, workplace-based assessments and, in some cases, RACGP exams. Once all requirements are completed, you can apply for FRACGP and Specialist Registration.

Understanding the Expedited Specialist Pathway

The expedited route is the simplest and fastest option available, but only if you trained in a recognised country.

Here’s how it works:

Step 1 — Verification
 Your qualifications are verified through the Australian Medical Council (AMC).

Step 2 — Job Offer & Supervision Plan
 You secure a GP role in an eligible location and have a short supervised practice plan agreed with your employer and AHPRA. Recruiters can guide you through this step.

Step 3 — Apply for Specialist Registration
 With your documents and supervision arrangements in place, you apply to the Medical Board of Australia. Once approved, you can begin practising.

Cost & Timeframe
This route has lower overall costs and is generally the fastest way to start work. Fellowship with RACGP is optional; you may choose to apply for FRACGP later if you want the credential.

Understanding the PEP Specialist Stream (RACGP)

The PEP Specialist Stream is more detailed and structured because it is designed for GPs with a wider range of international training backgrounds.

Here’s how the pathway usually unfolds:

1. Comparability Assessment
The RACGP evaluates your qualifications and experience to determine if you are Substantially Comparable or Partially Comparable to Australian standards.

2. Approved Job Offer
 You secure a role in an RACGP-approved practice, which must meet training and supervision requirements.

3. Registration & Visa
 You apply for AHPRA registration and ensure you meet visa eligibility conditions.

4. Supervised Training Period
 All candidates complete at least six months of supervised practice along with workplace-based assessments and online learning modules.

5. Exams (If Partially Comparable)
 Partially Comparable doctors must complete the RACGP exams (AKT, KFP and CCE).

6. Fellowship Application
Once all training and assessment requirements are complete, you apply for FRACGP. This automatically leads to Specialist Registration.

Cost & Timeframe
The PEP Specialist Stream has higher fees, more assessments and takes longer overall. However, it leads directly to the highly regarded FRACGP qualification, which offers excellent long-term career mobility and full access to Medicare rebates.

Which GP Pathway Should You Choose?

Choose the Expedited Specialist Pathway if:

• You completed GP training in the UK, Ireland or New Zealand
• You want to start practising as soon as possible
• You prefer a streamlined, lower-cost route
• You don’t immediately need FRACGP (you can apply later)

Choose the PEP Specialist Stream if:

• You trained outside the UK/Ireland/NZ
• You want or need the FRACGP qualification
• You are prepared for additional assessments and, possibly, RACGP exams
• You want a structured training program supported by the RACGP

Both pathways ultimately allow you to work as a GP in Australia — they simply offer different routes depending on where you trained and what your long-term career goals are.

Need Help Choosing the Right Pathway?

If you’re unsure which route best suits your qualifications, we can help. Our team supports doctors with eligibility checks, job placement, registration applications, supervision planning and visa guidance.

📩 Send your CV to aus@bdiresourcing.com and one of our specialists will guide you through the next steps.

Start your Australian GP journey with confidence — we’re here to support every stage.