All doctors training with ACRRM complete the same Rural Generalist Fellowship Program — with a nationally consistent curriculum, education and training requirements, and assessment standards, regardless of how their training is funded.
The funding pathway you train under determines how your training is paid for and which financial supports and incentives you may be eligible to access. At ACRRM, you have access to three funding options:
- Australian General Practice Training (AGPT)
- Independent Pathway (IP)
- Remote Vocational Training Scheme (RVTS)
All funding options lead to vocational recognition as a Specialist (general practice) through the Australian Medical Council (AMC), vocational recognition with Medicare Australia, and reciprocal arrangements through medical colleges.
While some doctors can choose their preferred funding pathway, others may be required to train under the Independent Pathway due to eligibility factors such as holding a temporary visa, not yet having general registration with Ahpra, or having obtained their primary medical qualification overseas.
You can compare options below, or in the ACRRM Fellowship Program Funding Comparison Guide.
| STREAM | Australian General Practice Training (AGPT) | Independent Pathway (IP) | Remote Vocational Training Scheme (RVTS) |
| Commonwealth funded | Self-funded | Commonwealth funded | |
| Suitable for | Recent medical graduates and experienced non-vocationally recognised doctors. | Experienced non-vocationally recognised doctors. | Experienced non-vocationally recognised doctors. |
| Application process | ACRRM selection process. | ACRRM selection process. | ACRRM selection process. |
| Training time | 4 years full-time equivalent* | 4 years full-time equivalent* | 4 years full-time equivalent* |
| Locations | Regional, rural and remote facilities. Modified Monash Model (MMM) 2-7 with the minimum 12 months in MMM 4-7. | Regional, rural and remote facilities. Modified Monash Model (MMM) 2-7 with the minimum 12 months in MMM 4-7. | Regional, rural and remote facilities. Modified Monash Model (MMM) 2-7 with the minimum 12 months in MMM 4-7. |
| Practice Placement | College supported placements based on priority and preferred location/s in accredited training posts. | College supported placements based on priority and preferred location/s in accredited training posts. | RVTS |
Support and incentives
Registrars funded through the Australian General Practice Training (AGPT) program have access to a range of support payments and incentives while training towards Fellowship.
Other avenues to Fellowship
Specialist Pathway
If you are an International Medical Graduate (IMG) and hold recognised overseas general practice qualifications, you may be eligible to embark on our Specialist Pathway to obtain Fellowship of ACRRM.
Rural Experienced Entry to Fellowship (REEF)
If you hold an Australian general practice qualification and have extensive rural or remote experience, you may be eligible for Rural Experienced Entry to Fellowship.
Not sure which option is right for you?
Contact the selection team on 1800 223 226 or email selection@acrrm.org.au.