So, you’ve just passed Australian Medical Council (AMC) Part 1…congratulations! You’re probably asking yourself: ‘Can I start working as a GP in Australia now? And what does it even mean to be a Non-VR GP?’
The good news: yes, you can start working, but there are some important rules, supervision requirements, and location considerations you need to know.
In this blog, we’ll break down exactly how you can get a job as a Non-VR GP after AMC Part 1, where you can work, and what to expect along the way.
What is a Non-Vocationally Registered (Non-VR) GP?
A Non-VR General Practitioner is a doctor who:
- Holds medical registration with the Medical Board of Australia.
- Has not completed the full GP vocational training program recognized by RACGP or ACRRM.
- Can work in general practice, but sometimes under supervision or within structured training programs.
In simpler terms: you can work as a GP, but you’re not yet fully accredited as a specialist in general practice.
How to Become and Work as a Non-VR GP After AMC Part 1
For International Medical Graduates (IMGs), passing AMC Part 1 (MCQ Exam) is the first major step toward practicing in Australia. But what happens next?
Here’s the pathway how one can do so:
- Pass AMC Part 1 – This qualifies you to apply for limited or provisional registration with the Medical Board of Australia.
- Obtain Limited/Provisional Registration – This allows you to work in supervised clinical roles while gaining Australian experience.
- Start Working as a Non-VR GP – Roles can include:
- Hospital positions (RMO/JMO)
- GP clinics under supervision
- Community health centers, often in rural or DPA/MMM regions
These roles are not fully independent practice, but they are an essential stepping stone toward completing AMC Part 2 and eventually becoming a Vocationally Registered (VR) GP.
Structured Programs for Non-VR GPs
Many non-VR GPs participate in structured programs that support clinical placement and training, including:
| Program | Description |
| PEP Standard Stream | Provides supervised GP practice and training toward RACGP Fellowship |
| Medical Rural and Remote Pathway (MDRAP) | Focused on rural and regional placements with structured supervision |
| Hospital Internship Programs | Supervised rotations in hospitals to gain Australian clinical experience |
Where Can Non-VR GPs Work After AMC Part 1?
| Setting | Role & Scope |
| Hospitals | Supervised roles (RMO/JMO), rotations, routine inpatient and outpatient care |
| Community Health Centres (DPA locations) | Primary care and preventive services under supervision |
| GP Clinics (DPA-approved areas) | Supervised general practice roles, usually under a VR GP or formal mentoring arrangement |
| Rural & Regional Areas (DPA / MMM regions) | High demand for IMGs, easier access to roles due to workforce shortages and Medicare eligibility |
*DPA - Distribution Priority Area
**MMM - Modified Monash Model
If you’re job hunting, you can explore opportunities through Jobslly. It’s built specifically for healthcare professionals, so you’re more likely to find roles that actually fit your background.
Final Thoughts
Starting your career as a Non-VR GP after AMC Part 1 might feel a bit like navigating a maze but it’s totally doable.
The key is to understand your options, focus on supervised roles, and consider rural/DPA areas for better opportunities. Every shift, every patient, every rotation counts toward building your Australian clinical experience and stepping up to full GP registration.
If you need any more information or guidance, you can always reach out to the experts at Academically.