International medical graduates

About IMGs

International medical graduates (IMGs) are a vital part of the Australian medical workforce. Western Health recognises contributions that IMGs make to our health service, and provides tailored support to help you settle into a new country, health‑care system and culture. 

We employ IMGs in areas where there is a workforce shortage, creating opportunities for suitably qualified IMGs to join our team as Hospital Medical Officers (HMOs). 

Support for your transition

• Structured hospital orientation and electronic medical record (EMR) training
• Shadowing another doctor before you take over a ward role
• Dedicated Supervisor of IMGs and Medical Education Officer
• Targeted group teaching (including language and communication workshops)
• Established IMG peer network to help you settle into work and life in Melbourne’s west 

Helpful resources: 

• For general IMG information, visit the Doctor Connect website.

• For information about how to communicate effectively as an IMG, visit the Doctors Speak Up website.

   

Employment pathways

Competent authority pathway (UK, Ireland & selected jurisdictions) 

• Apply any time for surgical, medical or general‑stream HMO roles at PGY2+ level
• Main intakes are February and August; interviews are held well in advance to allow time for registration and relocation
• You must complete 12 months in a supervised post at a teaching hospital to be eligible for General Registration with AHPRA 

Standard pathway

We have limited positions for Standard Pathway IMGs, prioritising applicants who have previously worked in the Australian system. 

• Australian Medical Council (AMC) Part 1 pass (Part 2 preferred)
• Valid English‑language test result (within 24 months)
• Recency of practice: last clinical work within 3 years
• Minimum 2 years overseas clinical experience
• Australian work rights (visa or residency) 

Standard Pathway IMGs enter at PGY2 level. To gain General Registration you must: 
• complete at least 12 months in hospital roles spanning medical, surgical and emergency rotations; and 
• pass the AMC Clinical Exam.

How to apply

1. Visit the Western Health careers website and check for Hospital Medical Officer (HMO) vacancies. Follow the steps to apply.
2. If there are no vacancies, you can express interest sending an email to the Medical Workforce Unit.

Email instructions

If you express interest via email, please include the following:

• Subject line: IMG HMO job application – [Your Name]
• In the body, include:
  • Areas of career interest and preferred rotations
  • Current hospital and country of employment
  • AHPRA status (Competent Authority or Standard Pathway)
  • Available start date and preferred contract length (6, 9, 12 or 18 months)
• Attach:
  • Cover letter
  • CV/resume
  • Two consultant references (on the standard reference form)

We look forward to welcoming you to Western Health and supporting your medical career in Australia