This 2025 Doctor Job Market Report provides verified, official data on demand for doctors across Australia. Designed for healthcare professionals, medical students, and international doctors planning their careers, this resource offers clear insights into specialty shortages, regional demand, and healthcare workforce trends.
Data sourced from AHPRA, Department of Health, and state health departments. This report serves medical professionals seeking evidence-based career planning and workforce insights.
Australia's healthcare system employs over 118,000 registered doctors across public and private sectors, serving a population of 26 million. Despite continued growth in medical school graduates and international recruitment, the country faces a shortage of approximately 4,200 doctors, with demand particularly acute in rural and regional areas.
The Australian healthcare system operates on a mixed public-private model, with Medicare providing universal coverage and private health insurance supplementing services. This creates diverse employment opportunities for doctors across hospital systems, private practice, and community health services.
Key Context: International Medical Graduates (IMGs) comprise 42% of Australia's medical workforce, highlighting the country's reliance on global talent to meet healthcare demands.
Registered doctors
Unfilled positions
Annual increase
Overseas trained
NSW and Victoria dominate the medical workforce, accounting for 56% of all doctors. However, when adjusted for population, South Australia has the highest doctor-to-population ratio at 4.9 per 1,000 residents. Queensland and Northern Territory show the highest demand growth, driven by population increases and service expansion.
Career Opportunity: States marked "Very High" demand offer excellent prospects for rapid employment and career advancement.
Data Sources: Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA), Department of Health, Australian Medical Association, Medical Board of Australia, and various state health departments.
Last Updated: 2025-01-07 | Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and should not be considered professional advice. Salary ranges and demand levels may vary based on location, experience, and other factors. Individual circumstances may differ significantly from aggregate data presented.
Methodology: Demand levels calculated using current vacancy rates, population health projections, and workforce planning data. Salary ranges represent total remuneration including base salary, overtime, and additional payments for full-time equivalent positions.