Discovering Australia - A Spotlight on Western Australia

Are you ready to embark on an exciting journey Down Under? In our newest "Discovering Australia" blog, we dive deep into everything you need to know about living and working as a doctor or nurse in Western Australia (WA).

In our latest ‘Discovering Australia’ blog, we are going to provide a comprehensive guide to living and working as a doctor or nurse in Western Australia (WA).

Western Australia is famed for its stunning landscapes, vibrant and bustling cities, and high-quality healthcare system. For doctors and nurses considering a move to this expansive region, there are abundant professional opportunities and lifestyle perks. In this blog, we'll explore the essentials of living and working in WA with WA Country Health Services (WACHS).

Keep reading to discover the lifestyle, culture and practicalities of relocating to Australia with Head Medical.

Working as a Doctor or Nurse in Western Australia

Healthcare System

Western Australia’s healthcare system is a mix of public and private services. The WA Country Health Services (WACHS) manages the public healthcare system, which we are collaborating with them to recruit talented doctors and nurses in their hospitals across the state in locations such as Bunbury, Kalgoorlie, Geraldton, Albany and Broome. We are also working with public hospitals for Psychiatry Consultants & private GP practices in desirable city locations such as Perth & Busselton.

Salaries in Western Australia

Here's a glimpse of what you can expect to earn as a Healthcare Professional in WA:

General Practitioners: There are opportunities for GPs to work for WACHS in procedural and non-procedural positions as a salaried GP, with annual earnings ranging from $316,842 to $549,874 AUD.
Consultant Specialists: Basic salaries for consultant specialists range from $306,690 - $477,340AUD in metro & southern locations, and $347,955 - $493,040 AUD in the north. Additional incentives are available for remote areas and managerial roles.
Registered Nurse: Salaries typically range from $69,697 to $ 90,452 AUD.
Junior Doctor: Depending on experience, you can expect a salary between $120,678 - $149,673 with WACHS

For more detailed information on salaries and benefits, contact your Head Medical consultant. See contact details below.

Continuous professional development is encouraged, with organisations like the Australian Medical Association (AMA) and the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP) offering courses. WACHS prioritises work-life balance, ensuring doctors and nurses maintain their health and well-being through flexible work arrangements and workload management.

The WA Country Health Services

WACHS have six large regional health campuses and 15 district health campuses which support small hospitals, health centres, mental health services and aged care facilities in the state.

The WA Country Health Service has invested heavily in telehealth services. The Emergency Telehealth Service supports WA country doctors and nurses by providing 24/7 access to specialist emergency clinicians in Perth by video conference to more than 90 small hospitals and nursing posts around the state.

You can learn more about what it's like to work as a Health Professional with WACHS here - WA Country Health Service - In their words

Living in Western Australia

Western Australia boasts an exceptional quality of life with its laid-back lifestyle, stunning beaches, and warm, sunny climate. Whether you prefer urban sophistication or rural tranquillity, WA has it all. Coastal towns offer a relaxed beach lifestyle, while inland regions promise a closer connection to nature and a slower pace of life.

The cost of living can vary significantly across the state. Housing, utilities, and food are generally more affordable in regional areas. Here's a helpful site with advice on buying a house as an expat in Australia - How to Buy a House in Australia - Advice for expats (moving-australia.co.uk).

Registration and Licensing

To practice in Western Australia, you must be registered with the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA). Nurses must complete this registration before applying for a position with Head Medical. International medical graduates may need to undertake supervised practice before gaining full registration.

Once you secure a position with Head Medical in Western Australia, you'll need to complete paperwork and secure your visa. Consultant specialists will need to be assessed by their relevant specialty college prior to gaining medical registration and working in Australia. Head Medical's expert team can guide you through this process. We also collaborate with various partners who can assist with money exchange, relocation logistics and more - check out what's on offer here.

Embark on this exciting adventure with Head Medical and explore the endless opportunities Western Australia has to offer. Ready to make your move? Contact us today and take the first step towards your new career in WA!

Meet your Specialist Recruiters

Briony Wilson