Radiation Oncology

Specialty overview

Radiation oncologists safely apply radiation therapy to a wide range of cancers, either as an isolated treatment or in conjunction with surgery, chemotherapy or other treatments.

Clinical practice

Radiation oncologists are ultimately responsible for assessing individual patients, and are required to consult with other doctors involved with cancer treatment to determine a best management plan, oversee treatment and assess a patient’s progress. Radiation oncologists meet regularly with patients and their carers to discuss what is involved before, during and after treatment.

Key statistics

2023 QLD Training program selections(first year)

31
eligible

8
selected

Number of Queensland and Australian specialists

Number of QLD specialists

427

Number of Australian specialists

Number of Queensland and Australian new fellows

Number of QLD new fellows

Number of Australian new fellows

Number of Queensland trainees and average work hours

Number of QLD trainees

41.6

Average weekly hours

Information on specialists

95

Number of QLD specialists
4

Number of QLD new fellows
41.6 hours

Average weekly hours QLD
49 years

Average age QLD

Specialists over 60

This donut chart shows that 19% of specialists are aged over 60 years.
Specialist intending to retire by 2032

This donut chart shows that 39% of 2022 workforce intend to retire by 2032.
Location in Queensland

This donut chart shows the percentage of specialists by their location: 25% are located in regional Queensland, 75% are in major cities, and 0% are in remote regions. The chart highlights that a vast majority of specialists are based in major cities.
Proportion Female/Male - QLD

55.4%
male

44.6%
female

This doughnut chart shows the proportion of males and females. Males are 55.4%, Females are 44.6%.
Public vs Private

39.6%
private

60.4%
public

This doughnut chart shows the proportion of public and private specialists. Private is 39.6%, Public is 60.4%.

Information on trainees

30

Number of Queensland trainees
6

Number of new Queensland trainees
130

Number of Australian trainees
30

Number of new Australian trainees

Proportion female/male trainees in Queensland

46.7%
male

53.3%
female

This doughnut chart shows the proportion of males and females. Males are 46.7%, Females are 53.3%.
2023 QLD Training program selections (first year)

31
eligible

8
selected

This doughnut chart shows the number of 2023 QLD Training Program Selections (First Year). 31 Eligible applications were received, 8 of those were selected.

Number of Queensland trainees 2015-2022

What our staff have to say

Dr Susan Hewitt

Director of Radiation Oncology
Townsville University Hospital

I feel incredibly privileged to have worked in radiation oncology for over three decades. Our specialty enjoys a unique and very rewarding combination of clinical and interpersonal skills, use of exciting technology which is continually evolving, and we enjoy work as members of multidisciplinary teams. Advances in treatment methods have resulted in significant improvements in outcomes. We know we can make a significant difference to patients’ cancer journeys and quality of life, while at the same time contributing to research. Working in regional centres is richly rewarding, providing excellent care for patients closer to home.

Training information

College

Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Radiologists (RANZCR)

Length of training

5 years full-time

Method of allocation

College-selected trainees may be allocated to a training post by:

Queensland Health pathway/network (centrally coordinated)

Training and assessment summary

For detailed information in relation to training and assessment requirements, please contact RANZCR.

Training program overview

Radiation oncology training is structured in two major phases encompassing an initial 'foundation' period where a trainee acquires background knowledge of the oncology sciences and familiarity with the training centre, with exposure to facets of radiation treatment planning, delivery and oncology anatomy, followed by the second phase of training where trainees must meet the Statistical Methods, Evidence Appraisal and (Trainee) Research (SMART) requirements. Phase 2 training will incorporate management and technical issues across the spectrum of tumour sites and special radiation therapy techniques and cancer procedures, as well as some general clinical oncology scenarios, incorporating practical exposure to brachytherapy, paediatrics, total body irradiation, stereotactic radiation therapy and surgical oncology procedures. Upon completing all requirements of the training program, trainees may apply for admission to Fellowship of the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Radiologists (FRANZCR) to practice as a Radiation Oncologist, with opportunities to sub-specialise in organ streams such as head and neck, lung and breast cancer or into different techniques such as stereotactice body radiotherapy, radiosurgery and brachytherapy.

Eligibility

Applicants must hold registration as a medical practitioner and have completed at least 2 years in an approved hospital as a junior doctor.

Flexibility

Minimum 50% of full-time commitment. Training must be completed within 10 years.

Interrupted training

Allowed for up to 12 months at any one time, each case will be considered on an individual basis. A return to training plan may be required following an interrupted training period of 12 months or more.

Training locations

Last updated: September 2024