Back to Move to Australia

Move your GP career to Australia

DPA and Medicare restrictions

A Distribution Priority Area (DPA) is a location identified by the Australian Government as having GP workforce need. This page explains what it means, and how it typically affects overseas-trained GPs.

What DPA is

DPA is a workforce classification used to prioritise access to Medicare-billing GP positions in areas identified as having more need.

Why it matters

Many overseas-trained GPs subject to Medicare location restrictions (sometimes called the 10-year moratorium) need to work at an eligible practice in a DPA location.

DPA is not only remote Australia

  • Regional cities
  • Coastal communities
  • Outer metropolitan areas
  • Rural towns

Important caveats

  • DPA status can change over time.
  • A location being DPA doesn't automatically mean you can work there. Your registration, Medicare, visa and supervision circumstances also matter.
  • Always check the DPA status of a specific practice and position at the time you're considering it.

We help GPs understand DPA in the context of their own situation, rather than as a general rule. If you're not sure whether a role is eligible, ask us or the practice.

Official sources

Requirements can change and individual circumstances vary. Always confirm details with the relevant authority for your situation.

Last reviewed: January 2026

Tell us about your plans