Frequently Asked Questions & Answers

Why work in Australia?

Australia offers a safe lifestyle work opportunity. Support2Health is the only remote and rural Medical Recruitment Agency offering a safe and unique work life experience.

For more information about working in Australia please check the Doctor Connect – Department of Health Government Website.

What is the process for applying to Support2Health?

Please submit your interest via the ‘Register Now’ button found on the home page of the Support2Health website. Your registration will be assessed for your suitability by a Support2Health team member. A team member will then contact you to discuss your application.Once you have registered you able to search current vacancies via our websites job search board and apply for current jobs.

What type of Visa do I need to work in Australia?

For temporary work as a doctor in Australia there are a few visa categories. Mostly you will be eligible under visa class 457 (Temporary Business Visa) or 422 (Medical Practitioner Visa). This visa will be valid for a maximum period of 4 years, but a new visa can be applied for if your contract with your employer is extended.  If you plan to stay in Australia long term, you may even consider applying for permanent residency after you arrive.

Please check our AMC Registration Guidelines Page for more information.

How long can I work on a temporary visa in Australia?

For temporary work as a doctor in Australia there are a few visa categories. Mostly you will be eligible under visa class 457 (Temporary Business Visa) or 422 (Medical Practitioner Visa). This visa will be valid for a maximum period of 4 years, but you can re-apply for a new visa for a further 4 years if your contract with your employer is extended past this timeframe.

What is an Area of Need?

An Area of Need (AON) is any location in which there is a lack of specific medical practitioners or where there are medical positions that remain unfilled even after recruitment efforts have taken place over a period of time. Area of Need applies to both public and private sector positions. They are determined by the State and Territory Governments. Methods of defining them vary.Most overseas trained doctors (OTDs) are required to work in an AON when they first come to Australia, so you will need to apply for Area of Need approval before offering a position to an OTD. Area of Need approval must be obtained by the employer – not an OTD.

What English Language testing requirements are needed to work in Australia or New Zealand?

All doctors who want to work in Australia or New Zealand will require proof of english language proficiency. Doctors who have been educated in english speaking countries may be exempted from all testing. Doctors educated in non-english speaking countries may need to complete an IELTS assessment at one of many international testing centres.