With its gorgeous beaches, enviable coastal lifestyle and proximity to Sydney, the NSW Central Coast is a popular destination for GPs looking to take the next step in progressing their career. Let’s explore why this region is so popular for medical professionals and families who’re looking to make their next move.
As the third largest urban centre in NSW, the Central Coast has been booming in recent years, with predictions the population will grow a further 30% in the next decade. So, what’s the appeal? The Central Coast brings together fantastic lifestyle benefits with great opportunities for training and career development.
With easy access to both Sydney and Newcastle, the Central Coast is ideally located for GPs with partners who need to commute for work, and its classification as a MMM1 / Distribution Priority Area (DPA), means it is eligible for vocationally registered GPs still within their moratorium, or international medical graduates who are deemed substantially comparable on the RACGP PEP Specialist Stream.
So, for GPs who are relocating from regional areas or overseas, the Central Coast offers the best of Australian coastal lifestyle, with more affordable housing than nearby metropolitan areas and access to great career opportunities. The whole family will love it here - with beaches, bushland and great infrastructure, plus excellent schools and a strong sense of community.
According to the 2021 Census, the Central Coast has a population of 346,596, and the median age is 43.
Interestingly, hospitals are cited as the region’s predominant employers, and 17.9% of people are educated to (at least) Bachelor Degree level.
The Central Coast is popular with families, and is also a haven for water sports enthusiasts who enjoy surfing, paddleboarding and scuba diving.
Housing is more affordable here than in nearby Sydney. There are a range of excellent suburbs to choose from - from the exclusive semi-rural community of Holgate, which features some of the area’s finest acreage properties, to popular beachside locations such as Avoca Beach and Terrigal with their patrolled beaches, vibrant markets and colourful cafés. For a quieter pace, check out properties at Wamberal, Umina, Killcare and Long Jetty.
Central Coast Grammar, Lakes Grammar and Green Point Christian College are highly regarded private schools, and local public schools such as Gosford High School are also highly rated. Tertiary education is available at the Central Coast Community College, TAFE NSW, or at the campuses of the University of Newcastle in Ourimbah and Gosford.
Local infrastructure means you can access world-class sporting facilities, or just kick-back and feel like you’re on holiday at home, at one of the many beautiful beaches and bays. Transport is also well established - with train links, access to major motorways, and well-maintained bike paths. In your downtime, enjoy exploring a wide range of galleries, theatres and venues, or find what you need in the region’s major retail precincts.
The Central Coast is home to a variety of medical centres, from large, corporate medical ‘health hubs’, to smaller independent family practices.
The DXC Medical team have helped more than 30 VR GPs secure new positions in the area. These have included;
Ready to take the next step?
Explore all current Central Coast GP job vacancies via our interactive map or search ‘Central Coast’ in the keyword box.
Our consultants regularly visit our clients on the Central Coast, so please contact our Sydney Office today to find out more.
The Northern NSW region is an increasingly popular destination for GPs looking to live and work in bustling regional locations with plenty to offer in terms of lifestyle, working conditions, and access to amazing landscapes, facilities and experiences.
The vibrant city of Wollongong is at the heart of the Illawarra region and is a regional city renowned for its liveability, with a thriving CBD, beautiful beaches, lively nightlife, and an established arts and cultural scene.
