As you book flights, and plan arrival, you will need to make sure that you have actioned these points:
Private Health Insurance
You will need to have Health Insurance in place for your 482 Skills in Demand (SiD) visa. The great news is that the government has a website where Private Health Insurance is all listed together so that you can Compare health insurance policies . To compare policies across each of the health insurers operating in Australia, all you need is the type of cover you want, who the policy will cover, and where you live. PrivateHealth.gov.au contains details of every health insurance policy available in Australia.
Banking
You will need to have a bank account set up to help you with day to day life, and to receive your pay.
Its possible for you to do most of the set up before you arrive, and then do the final setup, and get your electronic card on the day that you arrive.
One of the larger banks will be able to facilitate this, you can contact a Bank Relationship Manager directly to arrange this.
When you go to the bank, remember to take your passport, visa and boarding pass with you.
Medical Indemnity
AHPRA requires that Health practitioners who undertake practice in their respective profession must have professional indemnity insurance (PII) arrangements that comply with the relevant registration standard, for all aspects of their practice.
It’s a good idea to work with an industry experienced Insurance Broker.
Tax File Number (TFN)
A Tax File Number is your personal reference number in the tax and superannuation system.
Once you have a TFN it is yours for life and it is an important part of your identity.
Foreign passport holders, permanent migrants and temporary visitors located in Australia with work rights can apply for a TFN online using Individual Auto Registration (IAR).
To be eligible to use this service to apply for a TFN, you must be in Australia and have a valid visa with working rights.
It is free to apply for a TFN.
You should receive your TFN by mail to your nominated address within 28 days of completing your application and required documents, usually closer to 1 – 2 weeks.
The Australian Tax Office will never send your TFN by email. There’s a list of ways to find your TFN on the article Finding your TFN.
You can look under the personal details section of your ATO online account linked to myGov, and it’s listed under ‘My details’ in the ATO app
Australian Business Number (ABN)
In addition to your TFN, As a General Practitioner, you’ll be working on a Service Agreement so will need to have an Australian Business Number (ABN).
Your ABN is a unique 11-digit number that identifies a business in Australia. It’s used for tax and other business purposes.
To register for your Australian Business Number go to business.gov.au
If you don’t have a TFN, you can still apply for an ABN online.
If you give all the information needed, you’ll find out about your ABN as soon as you’ve completed your online application.
Accountant
A general practitioner (GP) in Australia should consider working with a professional and trustworthy accountant to make sure that you are well-informed, and for help with your business structure and taxes. It’s useful to speak to an accountant before you commence, or at least shortly after.
Its important to work with a well qualified accountant with suitable experience to ensure you correctly meet your income tax and GST obligations, grow your wealth and legally reduce your income tax payable.
An ideal accountant for doctors will be able to demonstrate experience of working with medical and professionals.