So, jaketheory, can you please tell us about the hierarchy for residency and how difficult/long it takes to move to the next level? So far, it seems to me to start with Intern then SHO.
first is intern year. some specialties require only intern year, whilst some others will require one SHO year. There may even be some specialties that require two years of SHO work. I know physician training only requires an intern year. However, the larger teaching hospitals in capital cities are the most competitive, and to be competitive, one will often have to have one or more years of SHO work experience, even for specialties that do no require an SHO year.
You would apply to the specialty college the year prior. Most specialty training will consist of a basic training level followed by advanced training. You will generally need to take an exam to proceed to advanced training. In many cases, one will have to apply for a position every year; they are one year contracts. But some larger hospitals have it organized so that you dont have to deal with reapplying and possibly relocating every year. for anything more specific, you should visit the website of the different specialty colleges.
Generally speaking, are there certain competitive and noncompetitive specialities?
of course there are.
Are you considered a non-competitive applicant as an IMG?
you would generally be considered less competitive; however, generalizations are not really valid. if you are the better candidate, being an IMG by itself would not otherwise make you any different. but there will be stigma similar to that in the US. People would prefer to hire a local, but if the best applicant is an IMG, they might get the job over a local.
from many posts here i am under the impression connections can make a large difference. as an img, you are likely to be disadvantaged in this respect. i've not been through the process so i cant say much more.
So if you are finish your residency and fellowship in the states, you'll still have to repeat one year in order to practise in Australia?
you dont necessarily have to repeat a year of training, but you will have to work under supervision for a year. You will not be able to run your own practice solo immediately upon arrival in Aus.
you seriously should have a thorough look at
www.doctorconnect.gov.au as well as the websites of specialty colleges before posting any more questions here.