Overview
REQ595908
Staff Specialist or Visiting Medical Officer in Anaesthesia – Maitland Hospital, Hunter Region NSW. Multiple permanent full-time or part-time opportunities for suitable applicants. Immediate start available as we excitingly open new theatres. See how you, your friends and colleagues Can Have More at Maitland.
\"When someone asked me why Maitland's Anaesthetic Department is different to anywhere else I've worked in Australia, I didn't have to think twice. It's the people, the culture, and the support from both within the department and from leadership that make it so special.\"
\"We are unique due to how cohesive it is, not just professionally, but personally. We're a small, close-knit team, our families know each other, our kids go to the same schools, it really breaks down barriers and builds trust.\"
Dr Ajit Sivasankaran – Clinical Director of Anaesthesia, Maitland Hospital
About Our Team
The Anaesthesia Department at Maitland Hospital is a cornerstone of the hospital\'s surgical and procedural services, playing a critical role in patient care across a broad spectrum of specialties. The department is located within the modern facilities of the new Maitland Hospital and is part of the Hunter New England Local Health District (HNELHD).
Key Features
Comprehensive Services
* The department provides anaesthetic services for a wide range of surgical procedures, including general surgery, orthopaedics, obstetrics and gynaecology, urology, ENT, paediatrics, ophthalmology, and more.
* Anaesthetic support is also offered for endoscopy, diagnostic imaging, and interventional procedures.
State-of-the-Art Facilities
* Maitland Hospital is equipped with cutting-edge operating theatres, advanced monitoring systems, and modern recovery/day stay units.
* The department and surgical facilities are expanding to cater for community needs. Once fully expanded, the facility will have 8 functional theatres with 2 procedural rooms.
* The department also supports radiology and cardiology interventional services.
* There is a well-functioning Level 5 Intensive Care Unit (ICU) for postoperative and critical care needs.
Collaborative Care
* Our anaesthetics department includes Staff Specialists and Visiting Medical Officers who work with surgeons, nurses, and allied health professionals to ensure safe perioperative care.
* Pre-operative assessments are undertaken to optimise patient outcomes.
* Expertise in acute and chronic pain management is available for comprehensive postoperative care.
Obstetric Anaesthesia
* The hospital is a referral centre for obstetric care in the Lower Hunter Valley, providing anaesthetic support for labour and delivery, including epidurals and emergency caesareans.
Education and Training
* The department is involved in the education of medical students, junior doctors, and anaesthetic trainees, maintaining a strong teaching culture and supervision program.
* Accredited for ANZCA training and GP Anaesthetic training; extended skills training for emergency and intensive care is offered with opportunities for professional growth.
* Participation in simulation training and professional development is encouraged.
* Role offers potential to contribute to clinical leadership and operational management within the GNSM2 Anaesthetic Network, shaping the future of anaesthetic services at Maitland Hospital and beyond.
Regional Focus
* As part of HNELHD, the department serves Maitland and surrounding areas with high-quality care close to home.
Essential Qualifications
* A primary medical degree registrable with AHPRA and Fellowship of ANZCA (or nearing completion within six months) and/or eligibility via overseas specialist pathways.
* Recent, comprehensive experience in Anaesthesia demonstrating expertise as a medical professional.
* Note for Specialist International Medical Graduates (SIMGs): SIMG pathways are available; the department has multiple SIMGs who have integrated into the region. The health district provides a streamlined SIMG registration pathway and settlement support.
* The health district has a specialised senior medical recruitment team and a Medical Settlement Concierge to assist SIMGs and families.
\"Coming from the NHS, it was a bit daunting stepping into a completely different health system... Ajit was honest about the challenges and shared what helped him adapt. That kind of straight-up advice gave me confidence to make the leap and embrace the opportunities here.\"
Dr Nirojan Sivapathasundararajah – Staff Specialist Anaesthesia, Maitland Hospital
\"Relocating from the UK to Australia was daunting, but the team at Maitland Hospital made us feel welcomed, informed, and supported throughout the transition.\"
Dr Mathew Sebastian – Senior Staff Specialist Anaesthesia, Maitland Hospital
What We Can Offer You
* Career development: opportunities for professional growth, including partnerships with HMRI and the University of Newcastle.
* Modern facilities: work with advanced technology in a purpose-built hospital.
* Team environment: join a collaborative, multidisciplinary team.
* Lifestyle benefits: located in the Lower Hunter Valley with access to vibrant community life, nature, and proximity to Newcastle and Sydney.
* Sustainable healthcare: focus on sustainable healthcare practices.
* Benefits: salary packaging, Fitness Passport, and Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for you and your family.
* Support with applications and onboarding: dedicated Senior Medical Recruitment team and Settlement Concierge to assist with applications, relocation, and settling into the community.
HNELHD is committed to child safety in line with NSW Health policies. All staff are expected to prioritise the safety and well-being of children and young people.
Need more information?
* Position Description availability
* Applying for this position information
Applications Close: 10 March 2026. An eligibility list will be created for future permanent and temporary full- and part-time positions.
For a confidential discussion about the role: Dr Ajit Sivasankaran, Clinical Director Anaesthesia, Maitland Hospital. E: Ajit.Sivasankaran@health.nsw.gov.au
Application enquiries: Stacey Burbridge, HNELHD Senior Medical Recruitment. E: Stacey.Burbridge@health.nsw.gov.au Ph: 02 498 53297
Important: Preference is for direct applicants; agencies should email CVs to Stacey.Burbridge@health.nsw.gov.au for review before online applications.
Occupational Assessment, Screening and Vaccination against Specific Diseases – this is a Category A position. All new employees must comply with NSW Health PD2022_030.
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