Radiology Journeys in Australia: A Guide for UK & IMG Consultants

For UK-trained and FRCR-qualified radiologists, Australia offers a clear and attainable route - though it involves a defined process called the Specialist International Medical Graduate (SIMG) Pathway.

The “Expedited Pathway” is not currently open for radiology, although it may be introduced towards the end of 2025. For now, all international radiologists enter via the SIMG Pathway. 

The SIMG Pathway: Step by Step

1. Confirm Eligibility

• Hold a recognised medical degree
• Have completed specialist training in radiology
• Be registered (or recently registered) and in good standing in your home country

2. Apply to RANZCR
Submit an application to the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Radiologists (RANZCR), including:

• Medical degree and transcript
• Radiology specialist qualification
• CV with detailed training and employment history
• Evidence of practice (logbooks, cases if available)
• References
• Application fee

3. RANZCR Assessment
 RANZCR will compare your training and experience against Australian standards. You’ll be assessed as:

• Substantially Comparable (close to Australian training)
• Partially Comparable (some gaps, usually 12–24 months of supervised practice + exams)
• Not Comparable (requires full Australian training)

4. AMC Verification
All overseas doctors must verify qualifications through the Australian Medical Council (AMC) using EPIC (Educational Commission for Foreign Medical Graduates system). This is mandatory before applying for registration.

5. AHPRA Registration
Apply to the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA) for limited or provisional registration. This allows you to work under supervision in an accredited radiology department.

6. Supervised Practice
 Most SIMGs will complete 12–24 months of supervised radiology practice in an accredited training site. Regular progress reports are submitted to RANZCR.

7. Assessments & Exams

• Substantially Comparable: May require only workplace-based assessments or a short supervision period.
• Partially Comparable: Likely to sit RANZCR written and viva exams alongside supervised practice.
• Not Comparable: Must enter the full RANZCR training program.

8. Fellowship of RANZCR (FRANZCR)
Successful completion leads to Fellowship of the College — the official “stamp” that recognises you as fully qualified to practise independently in Australia and New Zealand.

9. Specialist Registration
 Once FRANZCR is achieved, you can apply for specialist registration with AHPRA, allowing you to work unsupervised as a consultant radiologist.

Where Opportunities Are

Australia’s highest-demand areas for radiologists:

• Interventional Radiology (IR)
• Interventional Neuroradiology (INR)
• Paediatric Radiology

Area-of-Need positions exist in underserved regions and can often be approved more quickly.

Quick Reference

Approximate Costs

Total Approximate Cost: $16,714 AUD (£8,071)

The SIMG assessment is the largest single expense.

Consultant Pay

Salaries vary by state. For example, in New South Wales:

• Minimum Consultant Salary: $262,376 AUD (£126,701)
• Maximum Consultant Salary: $354,479 AUD (£171,177)

Additional income may be available in private practice.

Suggested Pathway

1. Gather documents (CV, logbook, FRCR, CCT/CESR)
2. Apply to RANZCR (SIMG assessment)
3. Complete AMC verification (EPIC)
4. Secure supervised training or Area-of-Need role
5. Apply for AHPRA registration
6. Undertake supervised practice and exams (if required)
7. Obtain FRANZCR
8. Apply for Specialist Registration

Bottom Line

For UK-trained and FRCR-qualified radiologists, the Australian SIMG pathway is structured and achievable. Some supervised training may be required, but the career rewards are substantial.

Opportunities are especially strong in IR, INR, and Paediatrics, where demand is high and approvals can move quickly.

With planning, the journey to FRANZCR and AHPRA registration can be smooth — leading to a rewarding specialist career under the Australian sun.

For details on roles and pathways in Australia, reach us at apply@bdiresourcing.com.