Rural & Remote Practice
Information about practicing as a GP in rural and remote Australia
Rural and remote practice offers unique opportunities and challenges for GPs. From diverse clinical experiences to stronger community connections, working outside major cities can be a rewarding career path with additional financial incentives and support programs.
Modified Monash Model (MMM)
The Modified Monash Model (MMM) is a geographical classification system used to categorize areas based on remoteness and population size. It ranges from MM1 (major cities) to MM7 (very remote communities).
MMM Categories:
- MM1: Major cities
- MM2: Regional centers (50,000 - 100,000 people)
- MM3: Large rural towns (15,000 - 50,000 people)
- MM4: Medium rural towns (5,000 - 15,000 people)
- MM5: Small rural towns (fewer than 5,000 people)
- MM6: Remote communities
- MM7: Very remote communities
Rural Incentive Programs
The WIP provides financial incentives to doctors who practice in rural and remote areas, with higher payments for more remote locations (MM3-MM7).
Benefits:
- Annual payments based on location and length of service
- Additional loading for remote areas
- Support for practices to employ allied health professionals
The RPGP provides financial support for rural GPs to maintain their procedural skills in emergency medicine, surgery, anesthetics, and obstetrics.
Benefits:
- Funding for continuing professional development
- Support for upskilling in procedural areas
- Available to GPs in MM3-MM7 locations
The Rural Generalist Pathway provides coordinated training for doctors to develop the extended skills needed for rural and remote practice.
Features:
- Training in advanced skills such as obstetrics, anesthetics, or emergency medicine
- Structured pathway to ACRRM Fellowship
- Support throughout training and early career