In a recent meeting with RACGP, AMA Victoria was informed of several key changes to the 2026 AGPT program application and selection process. We want to ensure that our members considering this pathway are aware of these updates.

What’s changing for AGPT?  

• Applicants will no longer be required to provide referees in their AGPT application.  

• Applicants who are not an Australian or New Zealand permanent resident or citizen, will no longer need to have an active permanent residency (PR) application at the time of applying but will still need to be on an accepted visa and obtain PR by the completion of training.  

• A new online selection assessment RACGP - AGPT Selection assessment will replace the existing multiple mini-interview (MMIs) and candidate assessment and applied knowledge test (CAAKT). Applicants will be able to sit this exam from anywhere. Applicants will be able to pre-select (well in advance) a date and time within the assessment window (Sat 17 – Sun 25 May 2025).  Details of the exact timeslots will be available soon.  

• The new Australian Medical Council PGY 2 certification, or general registration and 12 further months of hospital experience, will be required before entering a community-based general practice term (instead of the current surgery, medicine, and emergency terms). The paediatric requirement still applies with some updates. Doctors can still meet the hospital experience and paediatric requirement on your first year in the AGPT Program. More details about these changes can be found at AGPT Hospital & Paediatric Competency Requirements.

Why are RACGP making these changes?   

RACGP is updating its process to simplify applications, improve access to selection assessments — particularly for busy clinicians and rural doctors — increase opportunities to apply for the AGPT Program, and align training requirements with updated Australian Medical Council standards.

Key dates and information sessions

The intake period for the next AGPT round will open on Monday 3 March 2025 and close on Tuesday 8 April 2025, all key dates and upcoming information sessions are outlined at RACGP - information sessions.

More information about how to apply, go to RACGP - Australian General Practice Training (AGPT) Program.