Top End medical officer positions

Working for the Top End Health Service

Come for the medicine, stay for the lifestyle. Be the difference.

What we can offer you:

  • tropical medicine and infectious diseases such as melioidosis
  • working within an extremely experienced multidisciplinary primary health care team
  • exposure to different medical conditions
  • working in an Indigenous health environment
  • traveling to remote communities to provide support
  • living and working in remote community settings and working Monday to Friday
  • support in a network that focuses on education.

What you can do:

  • engage with the community and make a difference
  • explore the beauty the Top End of Australia offers: fishing, camping, trekking, hiking, horse riding, cycling, swimming, diving, world class national parks and experiencing our unique aboriginal culture that is 22,000 years old.

Watch these videos to hear from interns, resident medical officers, registrars and specialists who share their stories about the unique work and lifestyle in the Top End.

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Top End Health Service offers a broad range of services in all specialty areas to the population of the Top End, including:

  • the Royal Darwin and Palmerston Hospitals (RDPH)
  • Katherine Hospital
  • Gove District Hospital
  • Top End Mental Health and Alcohol and Other Drugs Service
  • Primary Health Care and numerous remote health clinics.

Aboriginal people make up 30 per cent of Territory's population and yet currently reflect 70 per cent of consumers in the NT health system. This presents innovative opportunities around the delivery of integrated and consumer-centred care that is accessible, effective, culturally safe and responsive.

Aboriginal people experience some of the poorest health outcomes of all Australians exacerbated by social factors such as remote isolation. Improving Aboriginal health and wellbeing is a complex but rewarding challenge. In committing to making a difference it is important to acknowledge and respects the interests of Aboriginal people as Australia's first peoples recognising their strong connection to land and cultural.  This acknowledgement and respect is essential as a foundation to achieve equitable health and wellbeing outcomes and all medical staff have an opportunity to learn and experience in this unique environment.

Top End Health Service offers a broad range of services in all specialty areas to the population of the Top End. You will get to engage with the community, share the challenges, gain knowledge and skills you won’t see anywhere else and you will see the difference you can make.

We have hospitals in Darwin, Palmerston, Katherine and Gove and rural health clinics in remote locations across the Top End.

  • You can choose to work in an urban, rural, remote location or experience a bit of it all.
  • No matter where you choose to go you will gain expertise and experience that will benefit you throughout your career.

We have world renown specialists in tropical medicine based in the Top End who are here to share their knowledge and provide teaching opportunities at our weekly teaching sessions including Grand Rounds, Intern/JMO/Registrar teaching, Journal club, Division teaching/grand rounds.

Our vision is to be recognised locally, nationally and internationally as a centre of excellence for the provision of high quality healthcare to our community and fulfill our role as the National Critical Care and Trauma Response Centre.

There is a strong commitment to work with junior medical officers on their career pathways with an aim to provide appropriate clinical terms and experiences to achieve their chosen vocational training.

The Royal Darwin Hospital shares its campus with Menzies School of Health Research and Flinders NT Medical School, offering the opportunity for our staff to engage in research and teaching opportunities.

The Top End region includes:

  • Darwin
  • Katherine
  • Nhulunbuy (Gove)
  • Jabiru
  • East and West Arnhem and many more discrete Aboriginal communities.

For more information about population, go to the Northern Territory Economy website.

The Top End is home to Darwin and home to its traditional owners, the Larrakia people. It is a beautiful tropical city that is arguably one of Australia’s if not the world’s most multicultural cities with a population consisting of more than 60 nationalities and a unique lifestyle that the locals will tell you is second to none.

The Top End climate is tropical and is in the monsoon belt, where we experience two seasons.

  • the wet season, where it is hot and wet with amazing tropical storms
  • the dry season, where the temperatures drop to between 20 to 30 degrees celsius. Yes, leave your winter woollies behind, although the locals will tell you it gets cold.

During the wet and the dry seasons you get to spend time exploring our unique country and experience everything the Top End has to offer.  Our relaxed lifestyle allows you to enjoy a work-life balance, engage in community activities, sport, culture, social events, festivals and markets. Our market food is so authentic you’ll think you’re in Asia.

We are the gateway to Asia with:

  • Timor Leste a short one and a half hours
  • Bali two and a half hours
  • Singapore four and a half hours flight away.

For more information visit:

Royal Darwin Hospital (RDH) is a university teaching hospital with 370 beds and provides a broad range of services in all specialty areas to the Darwin urban population as well as serving as a referral centre to the whole Top End of the Northern Territory (NT).

The population serviced by the hospital is about 175,000 and many of our patients are from remote communities. This adds to the challenges, unique learning opportunities and ability to make a difference in the health outcomes for our community.

Junior medical officer training

RDH is accredited by the Northern Territory Postgraduate Medical Council on behalf of the Medical Board of the Northern Territory for intern and junior medical officer training, and has an active clinical training program for pre-vocational trainees and registrars.

The hospital has a strong commitment to work with junior medical officers on their career pathways with an aim to provide appropriate clinical terms and experiences to achieve their chosen vocational training.

The hospital is accredited to provide supervision and training for International Medical Graduates. There is a strong clinical focus on Indigenous health and infectious diseases.

Accommodation

Furnished accommodation is available on the Royal Darwin Hospital campus for periods up to 12 weeks and is allocated according to determined criteria and availability.

Accommodation available is in the form of studios, one to two bedroom units, and three to four bedroom houses.

The recreational facilities available on the RDH campus include a half Olympic swimming pool, squash and tennis courts, and a gymnasium.

Palmerston Regional Hospital (PRH) has 72 overnight beds and provides a broad range of services including:

  • sub-acute services to the Palmerston population.
    • These have been designed to be complementary and integrated with clinical services at Royal Darwin Hospital, and build greater capacity as well as improving the NT's health care system.
    • Royal Darwin Hospital will remain the tertiary referral hospital for the Top End. It will continue to specialise in major emergency and complex trauma care for adults, babies and children.
  • access to emergency healthcare 24 hours a day, seven days a week
  • planned day and elective surgery
  • general medical inpatient care
  • access to pre and post-natal maternity services closer to home, including pregnancy check-ups, monitoring, post-natal follow-up care and breastfeeding advice
  • outpatient clinics and telehealth care for rural patients
  • intensive rehabilitation services and treatment with a gym and hydrotherapy pool
  • two surgical theatres and two procedure rooms
  • comprehensive Geriatric Evaluation and Management ward

The Katherine Hospital has 60 overnight beds and provides a broad range of services in all specialty areas to the Katherine Region population as well as serving as a referral centre for remote areas of the Top End of the Northern Territory.

The key range of health services provided across the Katherine Hospital encompass:

  • Emergency medicine services including an emergency department
  • General medicine and surgery services including an adult medical surgical ward with 1 designated rehabilitation bed and 1 palliative care bed
  • Maternal and child health services including a pediatric ward combined with a day stay unit
  • Integrated community and hospital services including tele-health services
  • Clinical support services including allied health, anesthetics, radiology and sonography services, pathology, specialist services including Specialist Outreach Northern Territory (SONT) surgical and outpatient consultations, mortuary services, rehabilitation step down unit, mandatory alcohol assessment unit, Indigenous and Remote Eye Health Service (IRIS) eye program, and operating suite/theatres

Email MedicalAdminKH@nt.gov.au or call the Director of Medical Services on (08) 8973 9211.

Gove District Hospital (GDH) is located in the town of Nhulunbuy on the Gove Peninsula. GDH is a 30 bed hospital and provides a broad range of medical, surgical, emergency, paediatric, respite and maternity services to the East Arnhem Region population.  It is the referral centre for 15 remote community clinics that refer patients to hospital for inpatient, outpatient and specialist care.

GDH offers a number of non-admitted services, including Ophthalmology, Cardiology and Gynaecological services.

The key range of health services provided across the Gove District Hospital encompasses:

  • 24 hour accident and emergency care
  • general surgical, medical and paediatric care
  • two respite places and two emergency respite places
  • elective and 24 hour emergency surgery
  • maternity services including caesarean capability
  • visiting specialists care
  • 24 hour medical imaging (on call service after hours)
  • pharmacy and pathology
  • support services including engineering, catering, housekeeping and laundry, stores, mortuary and cyclone shelter.

The Primary Health Care team provides preventative health checks and chronic disease reviews, immunisations, health promotion and education, palliative care within the home environment, including an after-hours service for palliative care clients.

Primary Health Centres are located across the Top End and include Bathurst Island, Belyuen and Milikapiti, Pirlangimpi, Julanimawu on the Tiwi Islands, Adelaide River, Batchelor, Daly River, Palumpa, Wadeye, Jabiru, Minjilang, Warruwi, Gunbalanya Maningrida and urban centres in Darwin.

The Primary Health Centres provide a level of service which is linked to the size and needs of the communities. Some have a resident General Practitioner and some have a visiting service.

The Primary Health Centres provide 24 hours seven day a week acute/emergency response through health staff on call and primary health care to the community: antenatal care; growth assessment and action (GAA) program for infants and children under five; childhood and adult immunisation; healthy school aged kids program; preventable chronic disease (PCD) program; well women’s and well men’s screening; infectious and communicable disease prevention and control.

Primary Health Care Medical Services provide a generous relocation package depending on the period of contracts secured.  This will be discussed at time of recruitment.  Accommodation is provided in the Remote Health Community along with power and internet.

PHC Urban Services

The Health Centres provide a five day a week Primary Health Care service including the provision of Child Health and Primary Care. Child Health includes health checks, immunisations and ongoing advice through parenting workshops, the services provides support to parents and their families from birth to four years of age.

The Primary Health Care team provides wellness checks for adults, immunisations, health promotion and education, wound care/support, palliative care within the home environment, including an after-hours service for palliative care clients.

The Urban Services includes health services to the Correctional Precinct.

PHC Top End Central

This area includes clinics in Bathurst Island, Belyuen and Milikapiti, Pirlangimpi, Julanimawu on the Tiwi Islands.

The Health Centres provide a level of service which is linked to the size and needs of the communities. Some have a resident General Practitioner and some have a visiting service. They may include 24 hours, seven day a week acute/emergency response through health staff on call and primary health care to the community:

  • antenatal care
  • Healthy Under five Kids Program
  • childhood and adult immunisation
  • healthy school aged kids program
  • preventable chronic disease program
  • well women’s and well men’s screening
  • infectious and communicable disease prevention and control.

PHC Top End West

This area includes clinics in Adelaide River, Batchelor, Daly River, Palumpa, and Wadeye.

The Health Centres provide a level of service which is linked to the size and needs of the communities. Some have a resident General Practitioner and some have a visiting service. They may include 24 hour seven day a week acute/emergency response through health staff on call and primary health care to the community:

  • antenatal care
  • Healthy Under five Kids Program
  • childhood and adult immunisation
  • healthy school aged kids program
  • preventable chronic disease (PCD) program
  • well women’s and well men’s screening
  • infectious and communicable disease prevention and control.

PHC Top End West Arnhem/Maningrida-Darwin

This area includes clinics in Jabiru, Minjalang, Warruwi, Gunbalanya and Maningrida.

The Health Centres provide a level of service which is linked to the size and needs of the communities. Some have a resident General Practitioner and some have a visiting service. They may include 24 hours seven day a week acute/emergency response through health staff on call and primary health care to the community:

  • antenatal care
  • growth assessment and action (GAA) program for infants and children under five
  • childhood and adult immunisation
  • healthy school aged kids program
  • preventable chronic disease (PCD) program
  • well women’s and well men’s screening
  • infectious and communicable disease prevention and control.

For further information, email MedicalRecruitmentRDH.THS@nt.gov.au.


Intern positions

This page provides information about Intern positions in both the Top End Regional Health Service (TERHS) and the Central Australia Regional Health Service (CARHS). For general employment conditions, go to the Medical officers employment conditions page.


Intern positions are available to graduates of accredited Australian or New Zealand universities, and offer the core requirements.

The NT Prevocational Medical Assurance Services (PMAS) conducts a central review of eligible applicants and all intern positions are allocated within the two health services.

  • Both health services are accredited to meet the 47 week minimum MBA general registration standard, offering both core and elective terms.
  • TERHS has a five-term Internship year - Interns work at Gove and Katherine as well as Royal Darwin and Palmerston Regional hospitals.
  • CARHS has a four-term Internship year - Interns work at Tennant Creek as well as Alice Springs hospitals.

Eligible applicants are allocated intern positions in line with the Northern Territory category groups (see below). Within the relevant category groups, applicants are allocated to their highest possible Health Service preference, pending availability of a position.

Overall the intern allocation process is based on an applicant's category group, Health Service preference and the number of positions available in each health service. The application is via the national process and information can be found on the NT Prevocational Medical Assurance Services website.

For general enquiries regarding intern applications email InternsNT.DoH@nt.gov.au or phone 08 8999 2834.

The Central Australia Health Service (CAHS), accredited by the Prevocational Medical Assurance Services (PMAS) on behalf of the Northern Territory Medical Board, offers a dynamic clinical training program for junior medical officers.

CAHS Intern Program

Interns in postgraduate year 1 (PGY1) are provisionally registered by the Medical Board of Australia (MBA) and administered through the Australian Health Practitioners Regulatory Authority (AHPRA). There are currently 24 accredited Intern positions available.

General registration is granted after successful completion of the Internship (PGY1) program.
This includes;

  • A minimum of 47 weeks full-time equivalent service,
  • Satisfactory completion of three core terms:
  • General Medicine - at least 10 weeks
  • General Surgery - at least 10 weeks; and
  • Emergency Medical Care - at least eight weeks

Four term rotations are offered at CAHS. Interns undertake the following;

  • Three core rotations;
    • Medicine or Renal (accredited as a core Medical term)
    • Surgery or Orthopaedics (accredited as a core Surgical term)
    • Emergency
  • An elective term consisting of one of the following rotations;
    • Medicine
    • Renal
    • Surgery
    • Orthopaedics
    • Emergency
    • Alcohol and Other Drugs (AOD)
    • Paediatrics
    • Rural Generalist at Tennant Creek Hospital (TCH)

Elective term positions are allocated randomly, however those who are keen to rotate to TCH may indicate this in their application.

Teaching

CAHS provides an outstanding junior doctor training program with an award-winning team of educators and clinicians deeply committed to providing a rich and diverse education and training program, reflecting the challenges that come with working in Aboriginal health in rural and remote locations. Strong intern and RMO representation on the Medical Training Committee offers support to the junior doctor experience.

Junior Doctors attend regular education and up-skilling sessions covering broad areas of professional development, including simulation, with all teaching and training in the purpose-built, state-of-the-art Research, Education and Training (RED) Centre. This is supplemented by robust and current junior doctor departmental teaching.

Formal and informal teaching sessions are delivered weekly by consultants and registrars, and most departments have regular formal grand rounds, journal clubs and specific sessions that junior doctors, particularly interns, are encouraged to attend.

The education and training program for interns is mapped to the Australian Curriculum Framework for Junior Doctors, and term descriptions provided at orientation outline how framework requirements are met.

There is a strong focus on generalism in the training programs, and Intern and Resident Medical Officers have the opportunity to consolidate, maintain and widen their knowledge, skills and experience, and access opportunities to explore potential careers in rural and remote settings.

Hospital orientation

Interns undertake a mandatory hands-on and interactive orientation program of up to 10 days prior to commencing ward duties. Key elements include simulation laboratory skills sessions, cultural competencies, use of electronic health systems, and an introduction to the management of unique and complex patient presentations.

Interns are advised when orientation specific to each department is scheduled prior to the commencement of each term.

Supervision

Supervision is provided as part of the education and training program, and contributes to developing the transition to safe, independent practice. Each department or division has a term supervisor responsible for coordinating and ensuring intern training and supervision occurs. Each intern will also have a clinical supervisor within their team who provides education and on-the-job training, career advice and guidance to achieve learning goals.

Interns meet with their supervisors at the start of each term to define learning objectives by discussing the expectations of both the intern and their supervisors’, and the role and responsibility of the intern within that team. Interns meet with each supervisor mid-term for a formative assessment, to ensure that they are performing to set goals and discuss any concerns. The end-of-term assessment is a formal, summative process which contributes to gaining full registration at the end of the intern year. These assessments are discussed at term orientation and comprise of, but are not limited to, direct observation, participation in case studies and other department or division education and training sessions.

CAHS Intern Term Dates 2021

Orientation

Wednesday 6 to Friday 15 January 2021

Term 1

Monday 18 January to Sunday 18 April 2021

Term 2

Monday 19 April to Sunday 18 July 2021

Term 3

Monday 19 July to Sunday 17 October 2021

Term 4

Monday 18 October 2021 to Sunday 23 January 2022 (14-week term)

Career development at CAHS

Please visit the Resident Medical Officer positions page.

Applications

Applicants are grouped into categories and short-listed according to the following categories and criteria.

Please be aware that these applicant eligibility categories are in order of selection (A to G). The number of intern places in the Northern Territory are limited and therefore very competitive.

To be eligible as an Intern applicant in the Northern Territory you must not have completed a medical Internship previously.

If you have completed an internship previously (overseas) please go to the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA) website for more information.

The applicant eligibility categories in order of selection for Internship in the Northern Territory are:

Category

Criteria

A

Northern Territory (NT) Medical Program Bonded Scheme/Return of Service Obligation (RoSO) applicants (guaranteed placement)

B

NT Indigenous applicants who have completed medical degrees at accredited Australian and New Zealand Medical Schools who are -

i. NT Indigenous scholarship holders

ii. Identified as an NT Indigenous resident

C

Non NT Indigenous applicants

D

NT applicants (Non-Indigenous) who have completed medical degrees at accredited Australian and New Zealand Medical Schools who are -

i. NT scholarship holders

ii. Identified as an NT resident (may include non-bonded JCU/Flinders NTMP students)

E

Australian applicants (Non-Indigenous/Non NT residents)

i. Previous experience working/studying in NT (JCU/Flinders/Other university student placements)

ii. Previous experience in a rural, remote and Indigenous health location/s (e.g. Aboriginal Medical Services, Rural Clinical Schools, involvement in Rural Student Clubs and those applicants who come from rural, and remote locations)

F

International applicants on a student visa, now an Australian Medical graduate who have

i. Previous experience working/studying in NT (JCU/Flinders/Other university student placements)

ii. Previous experience in a rural, remote and Indigenous health location/s (e.g. Aboriginal Medical Services, Rural Clinical Schools, involvement in Rural Student Clubs and those applicants who come from rural, and remote locations)

G

International medical degree applicants who have

i. Previous experience in NT student placements/clinical observers

ii. Experience in rural, remote and Indigenous health locations.

Interns are in postgraduate year 1 (PGY1) and are provisionally registered by the Medical Board of Australia (MBA) administered through Australian Health Practitioners Regulatory Authority (AHPRA). General registration is granted after successful completion of the Internship PGY1 a minimum of 47 weeks full-time equivalent service, which includes three core terms giving experience in:

  • Medicine: at least 10 weeks
  • Surgery: at least 10 weeks and
  • Emergency medical care: at least 8 weeks.

On and off site accommodation is available at Royal Darwin, Katherine and Gove hospitals for up to 12 weeks for Interns relocation from interstate.

RDPH supports relocation costs for Interns relocating from interstate.

Hospital orientation

Interns undertake an orientation program prior to commencing ward duties.

The time allocated for this mandatory orientation is up to 10 days depending on the health service you are employed at. The orientation is predominantly hands-on and interactive. Key elements include skills sessions utilising the simulation laboratory, cultural competencies, use of the electronic health systems used throughout the hospital and health service, and an introduction to management of unique and complex patient presentations.

You will be advised by your employing hospital when the hospital orientation is scheduled. Both hospitals usually run their orientations in early January which can commence in the first or second week of January.

Please note that orientation specific to each department takes place at the commencement of each term throughout Internship.

Supervision

Supervision is provided to all Interns as part of their intern education and training program. It also contributes to developing their transition to safe independent practice. Each department/division has a term supervisor who is responsible for coordinating and ensuring intern training and supervision occurs for that term. Each intern will also have a clinical supervisor within their team who provides education and training on the job, may give career advice and guide the intern to achieve their learning goals.

Interns will meet with their supervisors at the start of each term to define learning objectives through discussing the intern's expectations, understand the supervisor's expectations and the role and responsibility of the intern within that team.

Interns meet with their supervisors mid term for a formative assessment, to ensure that they are performing to their set goals and to discuss any concerns. The end of term assessment is a formal, summative assessment which contributes to gaining full registration at the end of the intern year. These assessments will be discussed at your term orientation and usually comprise of, but are not limited to direct observation, participation in case studies and other department/division education and training sessions.

Education and training

The Royal Darwin Hospitals is a teaching hospital, with strong links to the Northern Territory Medical Program, Flinders University and James Cook University College of Medicine.

The hospital's Medical Education Unit (MEU) provides a comprehensive training program for junior medical officers. Interns have the opportunity to attend weekly protected training sessions which delivers topics that are relevant and applicable to a medical officer at the intern level of training. The hospital requests feedback from Interns and other junior doctors to inform and improve the program delivered.

Formal and informal teaching sessions related to the specific terms are delivered weekly by consultants and registrars. Most departments will have regular formal grand rounds, journal clubs and specific sessions where all junior doctors, particularly interns, are encouraged to attend.

The education and training program for interns is mapped to the Australian Curriculum Framework for Junior Doctors. Term descriptions provided at the term orientation will show how an intern may meet the framework in that term.

The Northern Territory has a strong focus on Rural Generalist in their training programs. You will, at the intern and resident medical officer levels have the opportunity to consolidate, maintain and widen your knowledge, skills and experience, as well as have access to opportunities to explore potential careers in rural and remote settings.

  • The number of Intern places in the Northern Territory are limited and therefore are very competitive.
  • To be eligible as an Intern applicant in the Northern Territory you must not have completed a medical Internship previously.
  • If you have completed an internship previously (overseas), please go to the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA) website for more information.

The applicant eligibility categories in order of selection for Internship in the Northern Territory are:

Category

Criteria

A

NT Bonded Medical Scheme (NTBMS) Applicants

B

Aboriginal applicants who are:

  • NT Aboriginal Scholarship Holders
  • Identified as Aboriginal NT Residents*
  • Other Aboriginal applicants

C

NT applicants (Non-Aboriginal) who are:

  • NTG Scholarship Holders
  • Identified as an NT Resident*

D

Australian applicants (Non-Aboriginal/Non NT residents) who have:

  • Previous experience working/studying in the NT (eg. JCU/Flinders/other university medical school student placement/s)
  • Previous experience in a rural, remote and Aboriginal health location/s (e.g. Aboriginal Medical Services, Rural Clinical Schools, involvement in Rural Student Clubs and those applicants who come from rural and remote locations)
  • Other eligible Australian applicants

E

Non Australian applicants who have completed medical degrees at an AMC accredited Medical School who have:

  • Previous experience working/studying in the NT (AMC accredited Medical School placements)
  • Previous experience working in a rural, remote and Aboriginal health location/s (e.g. Aboriginal Medical Services, Rural Clinical Schools, involvement in Rural Student Clubs)
  • Other eligible non-Australian applicants

Applications are made through a centralised online job application portal:

  1. Go to the NT Jobs portal and search for available jobs with the keyword 'Intern'.
    1. You may apply for either or both CARHS or TERHS positions.
  2. Submit your application online through the portal, ensuring you:
    • upload all supporting documents, and
    • provide three referees who are registered medical specialists.

The CARHS and TERHS health services will make employment offers to those applicants who have met the Northern Territory Intern recruitment requirements.

The health services will only contact the referees of short-listed applicants.

To assist States and Territories with the filling of intern positions, a national audit of internship acceptances for the following clinical year will occur. Information disclosed will be restricted to name, date of birth, university attended or attending, student number, Australian Health Practitioners Registration Authority (AHPRA) Registration number, email address, contact number and residency status.

The information will not be used to influence or determine the outcome of an applicant's application. This information may be used by States and Territories to determine whether applicants have accepted multiple positions. Specific information will not be disclosed to persons not involved in the audit.

Applicants who are identified as having accepted more than one position will be contacted by the National Intern Data Audit Manager by phone or email and asked to withdraw from all intern positions within 48 hours, except for the one where they intend to undertake their internship commencing in the following year. Applicants may access any of their information held by the National Intern Data Audit by contacting the National Audit Data Manager.

For general enquiries regarding this process or to access your information email the National Intern Data Audit Manager at Datamanager@health.nsw.gov.au


Resident (RMO) positions

This page provides information about resident medical officer positions in both the Top End region and the Central Australia region. For general employment conditions, go to the medical officers employment conditions page.


There is an annual recruitment cycle for resident medical officers (RMOs) wishing to apply to the Top End and Central Australia regions in the various specialties.

Please note the application process for both health services require separate applications.

For detailed  information, please read the below RMO's program sections.

The Central Australia region is accredited by the Prevocational Medical Assurance Services (PMAS) on behalf of the Northern Territory (NT) Medical Board for intern training and has a dynamic clinical training program incorporating all junior medical officers. There are more than 50 RMO positions with 3, 6, 9 and 12 month rotations through a range of specialty and subspecialty areas, including rotations to Tennant Creek Hospital (TCH).

All rotations with PGY2 RMOs at Alice Springs Hospital will be accredited in 2024 to offer the new Australian Medical Council Framework.

Teaching

Central Australia provides an outstanding junior doctor training program with an award-winning team of educators and clinicians deeply committed to offering the junior doctor a rich and diverse education and training program, reflecting the challenges that come with working in Aboriginal health in rural and remote locations. Strong intern and RMO representation on the Medical Training Committee offers support to the junior doctor experience.

Junior doctors attend regular education and up-skilling sessions, covering broad areas of professional development, including simulation, with all teaching and training in the purpose-built, state- of-the-art Research, Education and Training Centre, supplemented by up-to-date junior doctor departmental teaching.

RMO rotations

Participants can be in control of their own training and keep preference rotations to suit their learning needs. Whilst not a part of a formal training pathway support for specialty training program entry and development is offered.

RMO rotations available include

Applicants must rank rotations in order of preference. Rotations include:

  • addiction medicine - 3 months, 4 positions
  • anaesthetics - 3 months, 8 positions
    • preference to internal applicants and those requiring anaesthetics for training
  • emergency medicine - 3 or 6 months, includes emergency certificate, multiple positions
  • general medicine - 3 months, up to 32 positions
  • general Surgery - 3 months, 8 positions
  • ICU - 3 months, up to 4 positions
  • obstetrics and gynaecology - 3 or 6 months, up to 24 positions
    • note - RMOs are first call and receive supervision from consultant staff in person or by phone and require some ability to work independently
  • oncology - 3 months, 4 positions
    • note - this is an RMO only unit with consultant supervision and support
  • orthopaedics - 3 months, 4 positions
  • paediatrics - 3 months, up to 16 positions
  • palliative care - 3 months, 4 positions
  • psychiatry - 3 months, 8 positions
  • renal - 3 months, 12 to 16 positions
  • remote primary care - 3 months, up to 8 positions
    • you will be based in Alice Springs and participate in community visits with a rural generalist / remote medical practitioner; visits range from day trips to 4 nights
  • TCH - rural generalist term - 3 months, up to 8 positions.
Senior RMO rotations

For PGY3+ only:

  • ED senior RMO - 6 months preferred but 3, 9 or 12-month positions available, up to 12 positions
    • must have completed 2 terms of emergency medicine since graduation
  • ICU senior RMO - 6 months, only 2 positions available
    • selection will involve an additional interview with a representative from ICU.

Career development

Central Australia offers many opportunities for career development for pre-vocational doctors. Rotations offer a general, well-rounded experience leading to a diverse range of vocational options. While contracts are offered on a 12-month basis, planning and pathways can be structured over one, 2 or 3 years, and take into account the needs of the individual junior doctor and tenure of employment.

Vocational training

Alice Springs Hospital (ASH) is accredited for the following:

  • addiction medicine (RACP)
    • full accreditation
    • accredited rotation for physician and general practice training programs
  • anaesthetics (ANZCA)
    • accreditation for 26 weeks basic training on rotation from the South Australia (SA) and NT Anaesthetics Training Scheme
    • accredited rotation for emergency medicine, intensive care, physician and rural generalist (JCCA) training programs
  • clinical forensic medicine (RACP)
    • accreditation currently pending
  • emergency medicine (ACEM)
    • accredited for 18 months FACEM Training Program
      • plus rotations available for non-ED time training time including anaesthetics, ICU, obstetrics and gynaecology, paediatrics, medicine, addiction medicine, TCH
    • accredited for the ACEM emergency medicine certificate and diploma
    • accredited rotation for general practice, physician and rural generalist training programs
  • general practice and rural generalist training (ACRRM)
    • fully accredited core hospital training
    • AST available in surgery (2 years), internal medicine (12+ months), emergency medicine, obstetrics, academic practice and anaesthetics (JCCA)
  • general practice and rural generalist training (RACGP)
    • fully accredited hospital time plus 6 months extended skills
    • extended skills available in emergency medicine, internal medicine, palliative care, addiction medicine, and obstetrics and gynaecology/women’s health
    • AST available in surgery (2 years), internal medicine (12+ months), emergency medicine, obstetrics, academic practice and anaesthetics (JCCA)
  • general surgery (RACS)
    • accredited for x2 SET positions, 6 months on rotation from interstate training sites
  • intensive care medicine (CICM)
    • accredited for 6 months core training
      • plus rotations available for non-core time including anaesthesia (12 months), internal medicine (6 months), emergency medicine (6 months), retrieval medicine (6 months)
    • accredited rotation for emergency medicine and physician training programs
  • medical administration (RACMA)
    • fully accredited
  • obstetrics and gynaecology (RANZCOG)
    • accredited for:
      • 6 months basic training on rotation from SA obstetrics and gynaecology training network - pending
      • 2 years advanced training
    • Certificate of Women’s Health, diploma RANZCOG and advanced diploma RANZCOG
    • accredited rotation for general practice, rural generalist, emergency medicine, child health certificate training programs
  • ophthalmology (RANZCO)
    • accredited for 6 months training on rotation from SA training network
  • orthopaedics (AOA/RACS)
    • accreditation for one registrar position
  • paediatrics (RACP)
    • accredited for:
      • basic training - up to 12 months on rotation from Women’s and Children’s Hospital Network (SA)
      • advanced training - up to 24 months
    • Diploma of Child Health
    • accredited rotation for emergency medicine, physician, general practice and rural generalist training programs
  • physician training (RACP)
    • accredited for:
      • basic training - 12 months; application for 24 months accreditation pending 2020
      • advanced training - 12 to 24 months - general medicine, nephrology
    • accredited for AST in internal medicine (rural generalist) and Clinical Diploma Palliative Care
    • accredited rotation for emergency medicine, intensive care, general practice and rural generalist training
  • psychiatry (RANZCP)
    • fully accredited
  • public health medicine (RACP)
    • fully accredited
  • retrieval medicine (ACEM/ANZCA/CICM/ACRRM/RACGP)
    • Conjoint Committee of Pre-Hospital and Retrieval Medicine (CCPHRM)
    • full Accreditation from 2021.

Further information for vocational training at ASH for each department can be found in the following links:

Orientation

RMOs undertake an orientation program prior to commencing ward duties. Key elements include cultural competencies, use of electronic health systems, and an introduction to the management of complex patient presentations.

Orientation to specific departments and their teams takes place at the commencement of ward work.

Central Australia JMO term dates 2024

  • Term 1: Monday 22 January to Sunday 21 April 2024
  • Term 2: Monday 22 April to Sunday 21 July 2024
  • Term 3: Monday 22 July to Sunday 20 October 2024
  • Term 4: Monday 21 October to Sunday 19 January 2025.

Contracts

Central Australia supports workplace flexibility and shorter contracts to a minimum of 3 months can be negotiated.

For more information

Medical Recruitment
Phone: +61 8 8951 7989
Mail: PO Box 2234
Alice Springs NT 0871
MedicalRecruitmentASH@nt.gov.au

Overview

Top End region incorporating Royal Darwin and Palmerston Hospital (RDPH), Katherine Hospital and Gove District Hospital offers broad clinical experience and opportunities to improve practical skills as well as a great lifestyle, spectacular geography and unique medical opportunities. On site facilities at Royal Darwin include a beautiful 25m swimming pool, gym, squash and tennis courts.

On and off site accommodation is available at Royal Darwin, Katherine and Gove hospitals for up 14  weeks, longer stays may be negotiated depending on individual circumstances and the location.

RDPH supports relocation costs.

RDPH offers RMO positions with rotations through:

  • anaesthetics
  • ICU
  • general medicine
  • renal medicine
  • cardiology
  • haematology
  • oncology
  • infectious diseases
  • rehabilitation medicine
  • rapid assessment and planning unit
  • paediatrics
  • obstetrics and gynaecology
  • general surgery
  • orthopaedic surgery
  • psychiatry
  • Darwin Private Hospital
  • emergency medicine including ED certificate/diploma/advanced diploma
  • Katherine Hospital
  • Gove District Hospital including pro start anaesthetics training.

For more information, view Top End region specialities and rotations.

Training

Royal Darwin and Palmerston Hospital (RDPH) is a major teaching hospital located on 2 campuses. RDPH is co-located with Flinders NT University, Menzies School of Health Research and has strong links with the National Critical Care and Trauma Response Centre.

Junior doctors are encouraged to attend regular education and up-skilling sessions covering broad areas of professional development. Departments also have formal grand rounds, journal clubs and specific sessions such as radiology meetings each week, and junior doctors are supported in attending these. In addition, all our junior doctors receive a profession training allowance paid fortnightly to support individual training needs. Territory hospitals provide a comprehensive training program for junior medical officers. The training and experiences in PGY1 (post graduate year) and PGY2 years follow the Australian Curriculum Framework for junior doctors.

A variety of pathways are offered from PGY2 years, opportunities for rural and remote practice are a key feature of these pathways. Pre-vocational pathways offer a general, well rounded experience leading to a diverse range of vocational options, as well as tailored pathways leading to specific vocational programs. Pathways can be structured over one, 2 or 3 years.

Junior doctors can also complete the following post graduate qualifications:

  • Diploma of Obstetrics
  • Diploma of Paediatrics
  • Certificate in Emergency Medicine
  • Graduate Diploma of Indigenous and Remote Child Health.

A number of junior doctors also undertake further studies such as a Master of Public Health through the Menzies School of Health Research and James Cook University.

For more information, view Top End region specialities and rotations.

Orientation

RMOs undertake an Orientation program prior to commencing ward duties. Key elements include cultural competencies, use of the various electronic health systems used throughout the hospital, and an introduction to management of unique and complex patient presentations.

Orientation to specific departments and the team you will be attached to takes place at the commencement of ward work.

For general enquiries regarding RMO applications in Top End region, email RDHJMOWorkforce.DoH@nt.gov.au.

2024 Top End region annual RMO campaign

Recruitment opens 26 June 2023 and close on 23 July 2023.

Apply for RMO position - vacancy number 70231330

During the campaign period expressions of interest will not be accepted.

2023 Central Australia region annual RMO campaign

Apply for RMO positions - closes on 17 July 2022.

During the campaign period expressions of interest will not be accepted.

Note: Please check in the above application section, if EOIs are accepted in the relevant health service.


To express your interest in a medical officer position, please provide the following:

  • application with 3 referees
    • NT Health will contact the referees of all short-listed applicants
  • cover letter outlining your application, including:
    • why do you want to work in the Northern Territory (NT)
    • any rural/remote experiences you have had
    • links to the NT (eg. family or, friends)
    • commitment to the NT
  • curriculum vitae (CV).

Email your cover letter and CV to:

Please include the following in the email subject line: Medical officer EOI application (your name).


Registrar positions

This page provides information about registrar positions in both the Top End Health Service (TEHS) and the Central Australia Health Service (CAHS). For general employment conditions, go to the Medical officers employment conditions page.


There is an annual recruitment cycle for registrars wishing to apply to TEHS and CAHS in the various specialties.

In additions, applications are permanently welcome from interested registrars wishing to apply throughout the year.

Please note the application process for both health services require separate applications.

The CAHS comprises of Alice Springs and Tennant Creek Hospitals.

Alice Springs Hospital

Alice Springs Hospital is accredited for diploma and specialist training by ACEM, ACRRM, ANZCA, CICM, RACGP, RACP (adults, paediatrics on rotation), RACGP, RACS (on rotation), RANZCOG, RACMA and RANZCP.

For further information on each department go to:

Tennant Creek Hospital

The work at Tennant Creek Hospital can be challenging but this makes it rewarding. It is an ideal setting for rural generalist training.

For further information go to rural generalist positions at TCH.

For more information

Medical Recruitment
Phone: +61 8 8951 7989
PO Box 2234
Alice Springs NT 0871
MedicalRecruitmentASH@nt.gov.au

The TEHS offers broad clinical experience and opportunities to improve practical skills as well as a great lifestyle, spectacular geography and unique medical opportunities. On site facilities at Royal Darwin include a beautiful 25m swimming pool, gym, squash and tennis courts. On and off site accommodation is available at Royal Darwin Hospital for up to 12 weeks. Longer term supported accommodation is available for rotational registrar positions. Accommodation is available for registrars at Katherine and Gove Hospitals.

TEHS provides a generous relocation allowance. This will be explained upon receiving an offer of employment or if requested.

For general enquiries regarding registrar applications in TEHS, email MedicalRecruitmentRDH.THS@nt.gov.au or anna.lithgow@nt.gov.au.

Surgery:

  • general surgery
  • orthopaedic surgery
  • ophthalmology
  • ear nose and throat (ENT)
  • maxillofacial surgery
  • neuro surgery
  • plastics.

Medicine:

  • general medicine
  • addiction medicine
  • cardiology
  • endocrinology
  • Darwin Private Hospital
  • dermatology
  • general medicine
  • general/rural medicine - Gove and Katherine
  • general practice trainees
  • geriatric medicine
  • haematology
  • infectious diseases
  • medical administration registrar
  • medical education registrar
  • nephrology - renal medicine
  • neurology
  • oncology
  • disease control
  • palliative care
  • pathology
  • rehabilitation medicine
  • respiratory and sleep medicine
  • rheumatology.

Critical care:

  • anaesthetics
  • emergency medicine
  • intensive care unit (ICU).

Maternal and child health:

  • paediatrics
  • obstetrics
  • gynaecology.

Pathology:

  • microbiology
  • general pathology (microbiology year)
  • anatomical pathology.

Mental health:

  • psychiatry
  • addiction medicine.

Radiology.

Orientation

Registrars undertake an Orientation program prior to commencing ward duties. Key elements include cultural competencies, use of the various electronic health systems used throughout the hospital, and an introduction to management of unique and complex patient presentations.

Orientation to specific departments and the team you will be attached to takes place at the commencement of ward work.

For general enquiries regarding registrar applications email MedicalRecruitmentRDH.THS@nt.gov.au.

Applications are made through a centralised online job application portal:

  1. Go to the NT Jobs portal and search for available jobs with the keyword 'registrar'.
    • You may apply for either or both CAHS or TEHS positions.
  2. Submit your application online through the portal, ensuring you:
    • upload all supporting documents, and
    • provide 3 referees who are registered medical specialists.

The health services will only contact the referees of short-listed applicants.

To express your interest in a medical officer position, please provide the following:

  • application with 3 referees, NT Health will contact the referees of all short-listed applicants
  • cover letter outlining your application, including:
    • why do you want to work in the NT
    • any rural/remote experiences you have had
    • links to the NT (eg. family or friends)
    • commitment to the NT
  • curriculum vitae (CV).

Email your cover letter and CV to:

Please include the following in the email subject line: Medical officer EOI application (your name).


Rural Generalist Pathway

“A Rural Generalist is a medical practitioner who is trained to meet the specific current and future healthcare needs of Australian rural and remote communities, in a sustainable and cost-effective way by providing both comprehensive general practice and emergency care and required components of other medical specialist care in hospital and community settings as part of a rural healthcare team.” Collingrove Agreement.

NT Health is committed to supporting professionals who choose the Medical Rural Generalist Pathway and is experienced in facilitating the transition for rural generalist trainees through the various educational and training components for the first six years of post-graduate training.

The training pathway supports medical officers with targeted training and development to become a Rural Generalist. It is a selective and flexible pathway that offers medical officers the opportunity to explore a wide variety of clinical training and develop the advanced skill set required to support the health needs of rural communities.

The Rural Generalist Coordination Unit is working with local and national stakeholders to strengthen existing pathways and incorporate them into a well-structured Rural Generalist Pathway aligned to the national strategy.

The collaboration of key stakeholders has an objective to get more doctors into rural and remote areas, and to better equip these doctors to meet community needs.

Resources

These pages have information about training, education and employment opportunities for current and future health professionals:

For more information about student placements, work experience and Indigenous cadetships with NT Health go to:

Publications

Contact

Rural Generalist Coordination Unit
rural.generalist@nt.gov.au
Phone: 08 8924 4150
Web: Rural Generalist


Specialist positions

This page provides information about specialists positions in both the Top End Health Service (TEHS) and the Central Australia Health Service (CAHS). For general employment conditions, go to the Medical officers employment conditions page.


Applications are being accepted from specialists wishing to apply to TEHS or CAHS. All successful applicants will be required to undergo a credentialing process prior to formal appointment.

General practice positions are also available within the Primary Health Care team. Specialists in general medicine with a sub-speciality interest are particularly welcome to apply.

Please note the application process for both health services require separate applications.

Specialties and rotations

For general information about specialist positions, go to:

To express your interest in a specialist position, please provide the following:

  • application with 3 referees, NT Health will contact the referees of all short-listed applicants
  • cover letter outlining your application, including:
    • why do you want to work in the NT
    • any rural/remote experiences you have had
    • links to the NT (eg. family or friends)
    • commitment to the NT
  • curriculum Vitae (CV).

Email your cover letter and CV to:

Please include the following in the email subject line: Specialist application (your name).

Applications are made through a centralised online job application portal:

  1. Go to the NT Jobs portal and search for available jobs with the keyword 'specialist'.
    • You may apply for either or both CAHS or TEHS positions.
  2. Submit your application online through the portal, ensuring you:
    • upload all supporting documents, and
    • provide 3 referees who are registered medical specialists.

The health services will only contact the referees of short-listed applicants.

Rural medical practitioner positions

  1. Go to the NT Jobs portal and search for available jobs with the keyword 'rural medical practitioner'.
    • You may apply for either or both CAHS or TEHS positions.
  2. Submit your application online through the portal, ensuring you:
    • upload all supporting documents, and
    • provide 3 referees who are registered medical specialists.

Contacts


International Medical Graduates

NT Health employs a variety of internationally trained Medical Officers also known as International Medical Graduates (IMGs).

IMGs can enter Australia on a temporary or a permanent basis to fill positions in the medical workforce that cannot be readily filled by a suitably qualified Australian doctor. This policy is known as Area of Need declarations.

For assistance with the application process, please contact:

The Northern Territory has a priority listing for IMG applicants and below is part of the selection criteria:

  1. Registration with the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA). Go to the AHPRA website.
  2. English language testing is mandatory for any overseas trained doctor who is registering with the Northern Territory Medical Board. Go to the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) website.
  3. Successful completion of the Australian Medical Council (AMC) examination and assessment process. Go to the AMC website.
  4. Successful application for a job.
  5. Application for the relevant visa is compulsory if you are not a permanent resident or Australian citizen.
  6. Application for a Medicare Provider Number with the Health Insurance Commission. Once you are employed, your employer will assist with this process.

Required supporting documents

IMGs will need the following documentation to apply. If your name is different from what is recorded in the documentation supplied, please provide supporting documentation identifying the change of name.

  • a current passport with appropriate working visa
  • an original or certified copy of medical degree
    • if the degree is not in English, a certified copy of an official translation is required
  • Curriculum Vitae
  • references - the names and addresses of three reputable people who can recommend your character and work performance
  • results of the International English Language Tests (IELTS)

In some cases, overseas doctors must be sponsored, usually by their employer in Australia.

Overseas doctors must meet normal immigration requirements with respect to good health and provide local police clearances for all countries in which they have lived for more than one year during the last ten years.

For more information on immigration and registration go to the following websites:

If you are an IMG and you have queries or concerns under the various applicable visa schemes, contact the Department of Immigration on 131 881.

If you need any help with translating or interpreting contact the Translating and Interpreting Service on 131 450.