• Mentorship from experienced Rural Generalists passionate about sharing their insights and expertise
• Peer networking opportunities with fellow aspiring Rural Generalist trainees
• One-on-one coaching from RGTP Rural Director of Training (RDoT)
• Advice regarding HETI -funded Advanced Skills Training posts
• Career navigation, planning and workforce advice
• Access to information and resources on relevant Rural Generalist related education events, scholarships and workforce opportunities
• Complimentary invitation to RGEN  (Rural Generalist Engagement and Networking) conference held annually

To be eligible to apply to Foundations applicants must satisfy the following criteria:

1. Australian or New Zealand citizen or permanent resident
2. MBBS or equivalent and current general or provisional registration with the Medical Board of Australia
3. At least one postgraduate year experience as a medical officer within Australia
4. Have a genuine interest in exploring rural general practice and a potential career as a Rural Generalist with an advanced skills set

How long does Rural Generalist training take?

Rural Generalist training generally takes four to five years, depending on the year of entry and number of Advanced Skills Training (AST) specialties undertaken. This includes meeting the requirements for both general practice training and your preferred advanced skill. (Current NSW Health-funded AST specialties include - Anaesthetics, Emergency Medicine, Mental Health, Obstetrics, Paediatrics and Palliative Care).

Do I have to have completed my internship to lodge an application for the following clinical year?

No, applicants who wish to commence as Rural Generalist Foundations Trainees as PGY2 doctors may apply to both NSW Rural Generalist Medical Training Program and a GP training College during their intern year.

Do I have to be on a general practice training program?

No, however applicants must be intending to enrol, in the process of enrolling or enrolled, in RACGP and /or ACRRM vocational General Practice training programs. Continuation on the RGTP is contingent on a trainee being accepted onto a general practice training pathway. All trainees must be enrolled on a general practice training pathway prior to commencing advanced skills training (AST).

I am enrolled in another College; can I still apply?

Applicants from other college training programs are not eligible unless they are also concurrently enrolled with or have a general practice training application pending with either RACGP or ACRRM.

How does this program fit with the Australian General Practice Training Program (AGPT)?

The RGTP pathway is undertaken in conjunction with general practice training through either RACGP or ACRRM. All trainees must be enrolled on a general practice training pathway prior to commencing advanced skills training (AST).

I am completing my medical degree in Australia but am not a citizen or permanent resident of Australia or New Zealand. Am I eligible to apply?

No, NSW Health recruitment guidelines specify that applicants must hold Australian/New Zealand citizenship or Australian permanent residency.

I am not eligible or missed out on applying to the RGTP. Can I pursue a Rural Generalist career independently once I start practising medicine (as a postgraduate)?

Yes. The RGTP is not the only pathway to a Rural Generalist career. If you want to pursue a career as a Rural Generalist independently, we recommend you discuss your interest further with ACRRM or RACGP.

Are there any long-term obligations once I am accepted onto Foundation Year?

There are no long-term obligations when registering with the RGTP or accepting a RGTP position.

I am an International Medical Graduate; can I apply?

You must be an Australian or New Zealand citizen or permanent resident  and have a current general registration with Medical Board of Australia to be eligible for this program.