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Licensing and certification

What are the medical board registration requirements and certification for international doctors in South Australia?

There are three assessment pathways for international medical graduate seeking registration to practice medicine in Australia:

Is there assistance provided for navigating these processes?

SALHN endeavours to support the international medical graduates in navigating the registration process. The SALHN TMO Unit supports the applicants in gathering the required documents and applying for registration. The medical officers can reach out to the TMO Unit for any specific support or information.

Visa processes

What is the process for obtaining a working visa to practice as a doctor in South Australia?

SALHN will sponsor working visa to international medical graduates who have been offered a position. The process will begin after SALHN provides a written offer of employment and the international medical graduate accepts the offer. For more information on the requirements and steps involved, refer to Immigration and Citizenship: https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/

Are there specific visa categories or requirements for healthcare professionals?

The categories of visa and relevant requirements are available on the Immigration and Citizenship website : https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/

Sponsorship and support

Does SALHN provide visa sponsorship or assistance for international doctors?

SALHN provides visa sponsorship for successful international applicants. SALHN generally sponsor international medical graduates on either the subclass 482 visa or the subclass 407 visa.

What kind of support is available throughout the visa application process?

If offered as a visa sponsored employment, SALHN supports by completing the nomination application for work visa. It is important to note that the successful applicants have to still complete and submit their part of application to Department of Home Affairs - Immigration and Citizenship.

How long is the typical duration of a working visa for doctors, and is it renewable?

The duration of work visa for doctors is variable and depends on the category of visa that is applicable. It is generally up to 2-years.

Are there pathways for permanent residency or long-term stay for medical professionals?

There are pathways for permanent residency for medical professionals. Please refer to Immigration and Citizenship for more information: https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/

Family Visa options

Are there visa options for family members accompanying me?

If working visa is sponsored, eligible dependent family members will be able to be included on the visa application and accompany the applicant.

Accommodation and lifestyle

Are there specific areas recommended for international doctors to live in South Australia and near SALHN?

Majority of SALHN employees reside within the SALHN catchment, encompassing the local government areas (LGA) of Holdfast Bay, Marion, Mitcham, and Onkaparinga. This region is home to approximately 378,000 people. For those residing in these locations, the commute to work by car typically ranges from 15 to 45 minutes.

Realestate.com.au and domain.com.au are popular websites for searching and applying for rental accommodation.  For short term stays, Airbnb.com.au, booking.com are popular websites.

Are there short-term accommodation options near FMC?

Two popular short-term accommodation options are Marion Holiday Park and Mantra Hotel at Tonsley. These options are frequently used by rural doctors undertaking short skills placements in SALHN. This accommodation might serve as a suitable short-term option while settling into Adelaide.

What types of housing are available, and are there resources to assist with finding suitable accommodation?

Flinders Medical Centre (FMC) residential accommodation is located approximately 400 metres South of FMC and 500 metres West of Flinders University, on Flinders Drive, Bedford Park. Regrettably, securing access to this accommodation can prove challenging due to its limited availability.

What childcare options are available on site?

There is a childcare facility on site at FMC. Staff from both SALHN and Flinders University can access this childcare. However, there may be wait times if you are considering placing your child there. Other childcare options are available and in close proximity to all SALHN sites.

Relocation assistance

What relocation support is provided for international doctors joining SALHN?

You might qualify for relocation assistance. However, eligibility for a relocation allowance is contingent upon the current approval from the SA Government. For confirmation of its applicability, please enquire directly with the SALHN TMO Unit.

Transportation

Is public transportation easily accessible, and what resources are available to help navigate the local transport system?

Adelaide has an efficient public transport system managed by Adelaide Metro, overseen by the Department for Infrastructure and Transport. This system comprises buses, trains, and trams, catering to the diverse needs of the community.

For detailed information on schedules, live updates, service disruptions, and assistance in planning your journey, the Adelaide Metro website is an invaluable resource. Visit Adelaide Metro to access timetables, service alerts, and the "Plan Your Journey" feature to identify the most convenient routes for your commute.

Public health workers affiliated with SA Health currently enjoy the benefit of free public transport to and from the hospital. To access of this service, you need to apply for a special metroCARD through the online platform here. Please note that processing the metroCARD application may take up to four weeks.

Remember to validate your special access metroCARD on each journey, similar to a standard metroCARD, and carry your valid SA Health/hospital identification card to ensure smooth access to the free public transport services.

Bicycle

Adelaide is a pretty flat city, but the southern suburbs can be hilly. It’s a comfortable ride into
Flinders Medical Centre if you live in Glenelg / Brighton and surrounding suburbs.
There are bike parking facilities in the hospitals that you can park your bicycle securely. There are
also lockers and shower facilities in the change rooms to freshen up.

Flinders Medical Centre (FMC)

Train

From Adelaide CBD Railway station, the Flinders train (FLNDRS) leaves every 30 minutes and ends at
the Flinders Railway Station, located a 2-minute walk from the FMC Main Entrance. The journey to
FMC, from Adelaide CBD, will take 25 minutes.

Bus

There are multiple buses from the CBD that can be caught to or from Flinders Medical Centre,
however, the most direct route options are;

  • 200 – Marion Centre Interchange to City (available between 5:53am – 11:21pm)
  • 719/720/720H – Flinders University to City (CBD to FMC available between 6:15 – 10:55pm)

Noarlunga Hospital (NH)

Train

To get to Noarlunga via train, you will need to catch the Seaford (SEAFRD) train which leaves the CBD
every 15-30 minutes. The journey from CBD to Noarlunga Railway station will take 45 minutes. From
there, it is a 12-minute walk from the railway station to the hospital.

Bus

There are multiple buses from the CBD that can be caught to or from Noarlunga Hospital, however,
the most direct route options are;

  • 721 - Noarlunga Centre Interchange to City (available between 6:22am – 11:29pm – 1 hour
    journey)
  • 722 - Noarlunga Centre Interchange to City (available between 6:55am – 5:58pm – 1.2 hour journey)

Repat Health Precinct (RHP)

Train

We do not recommend catching the train to RHP as it is not practical.

Bus

There are multiple buses from the CBD that can be caught to or from RHP, however, the most direct
route options are;

  • G21F - Aberfoyle Hub to City (bus leaves CBD every 40 minutes from 6:30am – 11:01pm,
    exit Stop 17 – Goodwood Road.

Vehicle acquistion

Where can international doctors purchase or hire a car in South Australia?

Australia is vast and, for those who haven't visited, can be somewhat challenging to fully grasp. Fortunately, acquiring a second-hand car in Adelaide is easily achievable at a reasonable price. An added advantage of having a car is the flexibility it provides for exploring and sightseeing within the state or even venturing interstate during your holidays.

What are the requirements for vehicle licensing for internationals in South Australia?

If you arrive on a tourist or work visa, you are allowed to drive with a valid driver's license from your home country, including the UK, Ireland, Malaysia, and Singapore. However, if you've been granted a permanent resident visa, you are initially permitted to drive for three months, after which you must convert your driving license.

Are there specific considerations or advice for parking at SALHN sites?

Flinders Medical Centre (FMC)

You will need to apply for a parking permit if you wish to park within the hospital campus. Onsite parking for full-time Medical Practitioners is $25.00 per fortnight and is deducted directly from payroll. Otherwise, there are other parking facilities around the hospital for you.

Noarlunga Hospital (NH)

There is complimentary car parking available near the NHS, thanks to its close proximity to a shopping centre. However, you also have the option to apply for a car parking permit within the hospital campus, offering a more secure parking solution. For full-time Medical Practitioners, onsite parking is available at $25.00 per fortnight, conveniently deducted directly from your payroll.

Cultural integration

Are there cultural integration programs or resources available to help international doctors acclimate to the local community?

As of now, we are looking to enhance our cultural integration and resources. While we are actively
working on these improvements, it's important to note that our workforce is already diverse and
welcoming. During your transition, our Medical Education Unit and Trainee Medical Officer Unit are
available to assist you in connecting with like-minded colleagues and communities.

What social or community activities are popular in the area?

The area south of South Australia, where SALHN is located, is renowned for its vibrant social and
community scene, offering a diverse range of popular activities. Residents and visitors often enjoy
the picturesque beaches, taking part in water sports, indulging in the region's celebrated wineries
and exploring our National Conservation Parks.

World-Famous McLaren Vale Wine Region: As a Junior Medical Officer at SALHN, you will have the incredible opportunity to explore the picturesque McLaren Vale wine region. Delight in the worldclass wineries, scenic landscapes, and exceptional culinary experiences.

https://southaustralia.com/travel-blog/mclaren-vale-wineries-and-cellar-doors

Given its reputation as the 'festival state,' South Australia hosts a multitude of cultural and music
festivals, creating lively and engaging experiences. Whether exploring local markets, participating in
outdoor events, or embracing the region's rich cultural offerings, there's a dynamic array of social
and community activities to suit various preferences.

Professional development

What opportunities exist for professional development and continuing education within SALHN?

There are abundant professional development opportunities for medical practitioners within SALHN.
Tailored to your needs, the experience can be specialized in a particular specialty or more
comprehensive, providing exposure to diverse clinical and non-clinical environments. Our objective
is to attract and retain top talent, and we firmly believe that professional development is crucial to
achieving this goal.

Are there mentorship programs or support networks for international medical professionals?

Our Medical Education Unit offers substantial support to IMGs, particularly those early in the early
stages of their medical careers. This support encompasses teaching, training, and mentorship. Our
primary objective is to ensure the success of individuals entering the Australian healthcare system.
Recognising that transitioning into this system is a significant, we are dedicated to facilitating a
smooth journey.

Within the first few months the IMG will be able to attend a dedicated orientation day to support
their integration into the Australian Healthcare environment.

The Medical Junior Education, Training and Skills (Medi-JETS) Program includes a mix of tutorials and
clinical skills sessions from a wide range of disciplines. The educational sessions are scheduled on
Thursday afternoons from 13:00-1400 and we encourage TMOs to attend.

The Medical Education unit also offers RMO simulation for prevocational trainees. This is an
opportunity to network with other PGY2 trainee medical officers whilst encountering complex
simulation sessions with the support of our Medical Education registrars and consultants.

Each specialty has their own teaching program which includes consultant teaching, journal club,
ground round, radiology meeting, mortality and morbidity meeting, presentation just to name a few.
Simulation training is also offered.

AMC Pathways

AMC Standard Pathway

What is the AMC Standard Pathway?

The AMC Standard Pathway is a route for internationally qualified medical graduates to achieve
recognition of their qualifications and skills in Australia. It involves a series of assessments designed
to ensure that candidates meet the AMC's standards for medical practice.

How can I fulfill the supervised clinical practice requirement?

Candidates must complete a period of supervised clinical practice in an approved clinical setting in
Australia, employment, with clinical supervision, is how you achieve this requirement.
This element is to ensure that candidates are familiar with the Australian healthcare system and can
demonstrate safe and competent medical practice.

How long does it take to complete the AMC Standard Pathway at SALHN?

The duration varies based on individual circumstances. Factors such as preparation time, exam
availability, and the completion of supervised clinical practice to a satisfactory level within medicine,
surgery, and emergency medicine contribute to the overall timeline. Employees at SALHN under the
AMC Standard Pathway will be allocated their required rotations based on need and availability,
with those who’ve completed the AMC Clinical examination given preference.

What support does SALHN provide for candidates?

As an employer of AMC candidates, SALHN offers a range of supports. These supports are primarily
managed through the Medical Education Unit (MEU), and includes participation in MediJets and
simulation training.

The AMC offers a range of resources, including study guides, sample questions, and official
publications. Additionally, candidates can seek guidance from the AMC Support Team and may find
mentorship helpful in navigating the pathway.

AMC Competent Authority Pathway

What is the AMC Competent Authority Pathway?

The AMC Competent Authority Pathway is designed for medical practitioners who have obtained
their primary medical qualifications from a medical school listed on the World Directory of Medical
Schools and have been recognised by a competent authority in a country or jurisdiction deemed
comparable to Australia.

Who is eligible for the AMC Competent Authority Pathway?

Medical practitioners who have obtained their primary medical qualifications from a competent
authority-approved medical school are eligible for this pathway. Please check the specific eligibility
criteria outlined by the AMC or AHPRA on their official websites.