Program Overview

Australian General Practice Training is a three year full-time registrar program that allows participants to gain valuable practical experience in teaching hospitals, rural and urban practices, and in specialised medical centres which provide health care for local communities, indigenous Australians, and for people from socially disadvantaged groups.

Towards the end of Registrar Training period consideration needs to be given to meeting requirements to attain fellowship of RACGP and/or ACRRM.  QRME supports Registrars attainment of both college fellowships.

Training Pathways

There are two training pathways.

The Rural Pathway is designed for doctors willing to commit to undertake the majority of their training in rural and remote areas of Australia. These areas are designated as Rural, Remote and Metropolitan Areas (RRMA) 4 to 7. Applicants participating in the Rural Pathway will be required to complete 18 months of their general practice training in RRMA 4 to 7 general practice placements. They must do all of their general practice placements in RRMA 4-7. Please note that RRMA will be changing to RA (Remoteness Area) in 2010.

QRME has taken a decision to place Registrars in January 2010 in accordance with the new RA system that officially takes effect at 1st July 2010.  We have done so as to ensure that Registrars are not forced to change practice placements mid-year when the changes occur.  2010 Training Year changes FAQs

Applicants entering the Rural Pathway are eligible for generous financial incentives. Doctors who fall under the 10 year moratorium are also eligible to apply for the Registrars Rural Incentives Payment Scheme.

The General Pathway is for applicants who do not wish, or who are unable, to make a commitment to the Rural Pathway. However, General Pathway registrars are required to undertake a minimum of six months training in a rural location. General Pathway applicants are not eligible during their rural training session for any of the financial incentives paid to Rural Pathway applicants.

Additional information about the Program can be found in the  QRME Information Handbook for QRME Registrars, GP Supervisors/Trainers and Practice Managers, and the AGPT Program Guide for Registrars.