Menlo Park Recruitment Podcast

Making the decision to move country is never simple – especially when it involves your medical career. In this episode of the Menlo Park Recruitment Podcast, host Thomas Tallis speaks with Dr Mandeep Bhattarai, a UK-trained GP who is preparing to make the move to live and work in Australia.

This open and insightful conversation explores what prompted Mandeep to consider Australia, the realities of the UK GP landscape, and what the Australian healthcare system offers in comparison. Whether you’re actively planning a move or just beginning to explore your options, this episode provides genuine, first-hand insight from a GP who has been through the process.

🎥 Watch the full episode below:

What’s covered in this episode

Dr Bhattarai shares his clinical background and explains how the idea of working in Australia gradually became a serious career consideration. He discusses the pressures facing UK general practice, why many GP practices feel constrained, and how this influenced his long-term plans.

The conversation also looks closely at the Australian healthcare system, including work/life balance, lifestyle expectations, and what “work to live, not live to work” really means in practice. Mandeep offers an honest view of the pathway to Australia, including the ECFMG process, and talks through the practical and emotional realities of planning such a significant move.

Crucially, Mandeep explains how having the right support and guidance helped him overcome doubts and confidently take the next step.

Episode timestamps

• 00:56 – Mandeep’s introduction to his clinical background
• 02:23 – When Mandeep first considered being a UK GP in Australia
• 07:51 – Why GP practices’ hands are tied
• 09:14 – A look at the Australian healthcare system
• 09:40 – Work/life balance
• 10:26 – What does the pathway to Australia look like?
• 18:47 – How Mandeep overcame doubts about moving
• 24:40 – The realities of planning a big move
• 25:26 – The ECFMG process
• 30:23 – How support helped Mandeep make the move
• 42:22 – The most exciting parts about moving
• 47:04 – Work to live, not live to work
• 50:58 – What lifestyle can you expect in Australia?
• 53:46 – Mandeep’s advice for UK GPs considering this move

Thinking about working in Australia as a GP?

Mandeep’s advice is clear: take your time, get the right information early, and speak to people who understand both the UK and Australian medical systems. With the right preparation and support, moving to Australia can offer not just a new job, but a completely different lifestyle.

If you’re a UK GP considering Australia, our team at Menlo Park Recruitment supports doctors through every stage of the process, from initial conversations to relocation.