Regulatory Requirements

All doctors practicing in Australia must be registered with the Medical Board of Australia through AHPRA. As a practice employing GPs, you should verify:

• Registration Type: General, Specialist, Provisional, Limited, or Student
• Conditions or Undertakings: Any restrictions on practice
• Registration Expiry: Ensure registration is current
• Specialty Registration: For GPs, check for specialty registration in general practice

GPs require a Medicare provider number for each location where they practice. Different rules apply depending on the doctor's qualifications and visa status:

Australian-Trained GPs:

• Fellows: Unrestricted access to provider numbers
• Registrars: Provider numbers linked to approved training posts

International Medical Graduates:

• Section 19AB (10-year moratorium): Restricted to working in DPA locations
• Section 19AA: Requires vocational recognition or enrollment in approved program
• Exemptions: Available in certain circumstances (e.g., areas of need)

Many doctors require supervision, including IMGs with limited or provisional registration and GP registrars. As a practice, you need to understand:

Supervision Levels:

• Level 1: Direct supervision (supervisor physically present)
• Level 2: Indirect supervision (supervisor on-site)
• Level 3: Remote supervision (supervisor available by phone/video)
• Level 4: Oversight (regular reviews)

Practice Responsibilities:

• Ensure appropriate supervisors are available
• Maintain supervision logs and documentation
• Provide regular feedback and assessment
• Report concerns to the relevant authorities

Whether engaging GPs as employees or contractors, clear agreements are essential. Consider including:

• Employment Status: Employee vs. contractor arrangements
• Remuneration: Percentage split, hourly rate, or salary
• Hours and On-Call Requirements: Clear expectations
• Leave Entitlements: Annual leave, sick leave, study leave
• Restraint of Trade: Non-compete clauses
• Termination Conditions: Notice periods and processes
• Professional Development: Support and requirements