The Medical Board of Australia has opened an IMG fast track for paediatricians and general physicians as the number of IMGs working in Australia via the expedited specialist pathways hits 501.

Since October 2024, the fast track pathway has allowed specialists from comparable countries to bypass college assessment before starting work in Australia, provided they work under supervision for six months.

As of 31 January, 441 fast-tracked GP IMGs have started working in Australia via the pathway, plus 35 psychiatrists, 18 anaesthetists and seven obstetricians and gynaecologists, according to AHPRA.

The RACGP says only 17 of the 441 GP IMGs have applied so far for its exam-free fast-tracked fellowship, which carries a $990 fee.