Workplace Based Assessment

International Medical Graduates (IMGs) seeking general registration with the Medical Board of Australia (MBA) require an Australian Medical Certificate (AMC). 

First, they must pass the AMC Computer Adaptive Test Multiple Choice Questionnaire.

Then they can either:

For further information, visit Gaining medical registration in Australia (health.wa.gov.au)

What’s on offer at Armadale

The 12-month WBA program at Armadale Health Service is based on self-directed, adult-learning principles. It is an assessment program, not a bridging or training course.

It provides guidance and support to IMGs to enhance their clinical skills and professional qualities essential to practising safely within the Australian health care environment and the cultural setting of the broader Australian community.

Regular feedback to candidates allows for self-assessment, self-correction and reflection. Candidates identify their strengths and development areas to demonstrate a level of competence across six different clinical areas of:

  • adult medicine
  • adult surgery
  • emergency medicine
  • obstetrics and gynaecology (women’s health)
  • paediatrics (child health)
  • psychiatry (mental health).

Candidates are expected to prepare for WBA assessments as they would the AMC Clinical Exam, with rigour and with the opportunity to modify and improve performance over time.

The content and the assessment standard of all accredited WBA programs are approved by the AMC and overseen by the AMC Board of Examiners to ensure consistency across programs and with the AMC examinations.

Throughout the WBA program, IMGs are assessed by experienced senior clinicians across a range of clinical areas, skills and domains. Using multiple assessors broadens the scope of assessment and ensures a more robust assessment process.

Assessments include a combination of:

  • Mini-Clinical Examination (Mini-CEX)
  • Direct Observation of Clinical Skills (DOPS)
  • External Assessment (Report)
  • Case Based Discussion (CBD)
  • Supervisor Reports and
  • Multi-Source Feedback (MSF).

All assessments are reviewed by the WBA Program Director, uploaded to the AMC WBA assessment portal and reviewed by the AMC.

Successful completion of the WBA program results in the candidate being awarded the AMC Certificate. Participation in the WBA program does not guarantee general registration; candidates must meet all requirements stipulated by the Medical Board of Australia prior to being granted general registration.

The WBA program supports:

  • Monitored progress through the required supervised pathway
  • Identification of, and guidance in addressing, specific learning needs, and
  • Determination of candidate readiness to proceed to independent (or more independent) practice in Australia. 

A candidate who accepts a place in a WBA program cannot apply for the AMC Clinical Exam during the 12-month period of the WBA Program. If a candidate is already enrolled in the AMC Clinical Exam for the year of WBA commencement, they will need to withdraw to be accepted into the WBA program for that year. 

It is the responsibility of each IMG to: 

  • Ensure they obtain sufficient experience across the six clinical areas
  • Complete all assessments, pre-reading and clinical experience to develop skills.

All IMGs are thoroughly supervised in their clinical practice by senior medical practitioners through a structured supervision and assessment program.

Cost

WBA candidates in WA hospitals typically receive a 12-month employment contract and are required to pay a candidate fee to cover administration costs, currently set at $15,000 (inc GST).

This can be paid in instalments.

Applicants are also required to pay an administration fee via this link at https://www.amc.org.au/assessment/fees/

Eligibility

Essential:

  1. Current or prior experience working at Armadale Health Service as a Junior Medical Officer.
  2. Currently Registered with the Medical Board of Australia.
  3. Demonstrated effective written and verbal communication skills with the ability to interact appropriately with patients, their families and staff of all levels.
  4. Ability to work within a multidisciplinary team environment.
  5. Demonstrated organisational and time management skills.
  6. Demonstrated awareness of safe clinical practice within own limitations and the environment in which practicing.
  7. Demonstrated interpersonal and conflict resolution skills.

How to Apply

For further information, please email akg.postgraduatemedicaleducation@health.wa.gov.au.

 

Last Updated: 21/05/2026