“Interns are a vital part of the professional team at the frontline of the health system,” Mrs Williams said.

“I was very happy to greet this new team of enthusiastic and talented doctors who want to make a difference, and develop their skills in the public health system.

“The NSW Liberals & National Government has invested close to three-quarters of a billion dollars in the internship program since 2011,” Mrs Williams said.

During their one-year internship, the graduates will complete compulsory terms in the specialties of medicine, surgery and emergency as required by the Medical Board of Australia. While the second year focuses on consolidating professional practice and experience in different clinical settings.

The interns will rotate through a network of metropolitan, regional or rural hospitals, as well as GP practices.

The 2018/19 State Budget has added 1,370 health staff, including 300 medical practitioners, 950 nurses and midwives and 120 allied health professionals – resulting in a record frontline clinical and clinical support staff of over 105,000 people.