Vocational

Following completion of medical school and the Internship, most medical graduates have made a career choice and decided on what specialist training pathway to undertake. To do this, they must apply and be accepted into a recognised vocational medical specialty training program.

The rural generalist vocational years in medical education and training, provide focused and intensive training into working in rural and remote communities built on the foundation of the knowledge and skills of General Practice.

The specialist colleges for the speciality of General Practice and Rural Generalism are the Australian College of Rural and Remote Medicine (ACRRM) and Royal Australian College of General Practice (RACGP).

During these years, medical professionals deepen their clinical expertise, acquire advanced skills, and engage in research and scholarships relevant to their chosen interest. The training emphasises professionalism, ethics, and patient-centred care, preparing individuals for Medical Board certification and the transition to independent practice within rural medicine.

Rural Generalist specialist training years also contribute to leadership development, interdisciplinary collaboration, and the ongoing advancement of medical knowledge.

The NT Rural Generalist Coordination Unit alongside the Specialist Training Colleges will provide local placement support, advocacy for Advanced/Additional skills training and career advice during your period of vocational studies in the NT. The two general practice colleges are the bodies that administer this period of your training and most questions regarding your training and studies should be directed to your GP College of choice and your assigned Clinical Educators. However, be aware that our business units Career Navigators are another resource that you can utilise particularly if you have spoken with them earlier in your journey.

AST/ARST Opportunities in the NT

The NT has a variety of advanced (AST) and additional (ARST) specialist skills posts that have been accredited by the GP Specialist Colleges (RACGP/ACRRM).  Check the GP Specialist Colleges websites for up-to-date information regarding what is required to complete your AST/ARST and where the training can be completed. links in place against AST/ARST

Types of advanced/additional specialist skills training that has been available in the NT:

• Aboriginal and Torres Strait Island Health
• Emergency Medicine
• Adult Internal Medicine
• Obstetrics & Gynaecology
• Paediatrics
• Remote Medicine (ACRRM Only)
• Palliative Care
• Population Health
• Surgery
• Mental Health

The accredited placements sites will be listed on the respective college websites or you could contact your assigned Clinical Educator for more information.