About BMS NSW

A story of tradition, brotherhood and professional excellence.

The history of the Bangladesh Medical Society is a rich narrative of culture, camaraderie and service. From a small group of migrant doctors to a united professional society, BMS NSW continues to support doctors, protect heritage and serve the wider community.

2010

Formal foundation

150+

Doctors at first major meeting

60–70%

Overall AMC pass tradition

1985 Regular migration of Bangladeshi-origin doctors to Australia began to take shape.

“Our future lies in uniting all Bangladeshi doctors under one banner, inspired by the spirit of our constitution.”

Our Mission

  • To promote the art and science of medicine for the best interests of the community.
  • To establish good health, good will and the exchange of knowledge among our colleagues.
  • To deliver consistent and efficient service in health care to the general population.

Our Vision

  • To incorporate BMS NSW in the professional lives of all doctors — local and IMGs.
  • To participate in charitable fundraising activities for local and international causes.
  • To establish a network for doctors, their families and the wider community to facilitate communication and exchange of information.
Our History

From informal gatherings to a professional society

BMS NSW was shaped by migration, mentorship, cultural connection and the shared dream of creating a strong association for Bangladeshi doctors in Australia.

Very few doctors migrated to Australia before the 1980s. Regular migration of doctors of Bangladeshi origin really began from 1985. By 1987, all doctors of Bangladeshi origin in Australia at the time had passed the AMC exam, resulting in a 100% pass rate as per the AMC published booklet. This strong tradition continues today with an overall AMC pass rate of 60–70%, surpassing many other countries.

In the late 1990s, a significant group of doctors migrated from New Zealand to Australia, and the aspiration to form a medical association was ignited. Alongside professional growth, there was always a strong desire to practice Bangladeshi culture and pass it on to the next generation.

Tutorials performed by Bangladeshi doctors in Westmead Hospital lecture theatres had become a regular occurrence. In 2002, doctors met as a group in Parramatta Park, Westmead. Although an association could not be formed at that time, the spirit of unity remained alive.

Milestones

Key moments in the formation of BMS NSW

The society grew through dedication, informal meetings, community effort and a shared commitment to professional support.

1985

Regular migration begins

Regular migration of Bangladeshi-origin doctors to Australia began, laying the foundation for a connected professional community.

1987

A proud AMC achievement

Bangladeshi-origin doctors in Australia achieved a 100% AMC pass rate among the early group, creating a legacy of academic and professional excellence.

2002

Parramatta Park gathering

Doctors met as a group in Parramatta Park, Westmead. Though an association was not formed then, the desire for unity continued.

2010

Foundation

Dr Shareef Ud Dowla convenes the founding meetings; the first AGM establishes BMS-NSW as a democratic, not-for-profit organisation.

2013

Charity from day one

First major fundraising drives support victims of industrial accidents and natural disasters in Bangladesh.

2014+

The AMC pathway

Annual mock interviews, study circles and career days begin — now a decade-long tradition that has launched hundreds of careers.

2019

A literary voice

Protidhoni, our Bengali literary magazine, publishes its first edition, followed by the Stethoz scientific magazine.

2021

Pandemic response

Oxygen cylinders, food parcels and gift cards were delivered across Bangladesh and Western Sydney during COVID-19.

Today

A growing family

400+ members across every specialty, an annual scientific meeting, and a new digital home — this website and the BMS Connect portal.

People & Service

The dedication behind the society

BMS NSW was strengthened by members who worked with commitment across leadership, education, membership, treasury and cultural representation.

Leadership and structure

Dr Moinul Islam proposed the title Bangladesh Medical Society of NSW. Dr Zakir Parvez, Dr Moinul Islam and Dr Shaila Islam contributed greatly to organisational infrastructure and membership.

Education and AMC support

Dr Najmunnahar successfully took responsibility for the Education Subcommittee. The tradition of helping doctors pass AMC examinations has continued with enthusiasm since the first executive committee.

Culture and heritage

Dr Sabbir Siddique took great interest in reflecting cultural heritage, while the society continued to emphasise Bangladeshi tradition in a professional and community-minded way.

Leadership

Executive Committee

Elected by members at the Annual General Meeting, the Executive Committee carries the society’s work forward each term.

RR

Dr Rafiqul Rahman Babul

President
MR

Dr Motiur Rahman

Vice President
SR

Dr Shafiqul Rahman

Vice President
SI

Dr Shaila Islam

Vice President
MF

Dr Mehdi Farhan

General Secretary
JU

Dr Jasim Uddin

Organising & Membership Secretary
IJ

Dr Ishrat Jahan

Education Secretary
SK

Dr Sayek Khan

Scientific Secretary
AM

Dr Amin Mutasim

Cultural Secretary
NJ

Dr Naseem Jessie Chowdhury

Publication Secretary
AC

Dr Ayaz Chowdhury

Treasurer
RA

Dr Rashid Ahmed

Immediate Past President

Past Presidents

Dr Shareef Ud Dowla

2010 – 2014

Founding President

Dr Mirjahan Maju

2019 – 2021

Dr Rashid Ahmed

2021 – 2023

Dr Rafiqul Rahman Babul

2023 – Present

Constitution & Governance

Our objectives, policies and framework — established and maintained democratically.

Read the Constitution

Looking forward under one banner

The future of BMS NSW lies in uniting all Bangladeshi doctors under one banner of federated union, as inspired by the constitution. The essential objectives remain clear: support new migrant Bangladeshi doctors in passing the AMC exam, obtaining registration and finding job positions, while connecting with doctors of Bangladeshi parents who graduated from Australian universities.

Support new migrant doctors Strengthen AMC pathways Preserve culture professionally