Area of Need pathway

The Area of Need (AoN) process applies to Australia only. The declaration that a specified position is an AoN is made by the relevant government jurisdiction not ANZCA.

The  Area of Need (AoN) process addresses medical workforce shortages in designated areas. The AoN process allows an SIMG to work for a limited period in a specific position prior to undertaking the full SIMG pathway. The Area of Need process alone does not lead to fellowship of ANZCA/FPM or specialist registration by the Medical Board of Australia. If a SIMG wishes to undertake an AoN position, they must apply for assessment in both the AoN and SIMG pathways. Further information on this process is in the Area of Need section of this handbook.

Applicants should also read regulation 23 and the Handbook for specialist international medical graduates for further information.