• Locum work offers flexibility in scheduling, exposure to diverse clinical settings, and often higher hourly rates compared to permanent positions. It allows doctors to travel, gain varied experience, and maintain a better work-life balance. Additionally, it provides locum doctors with the opportunity to build their professional network across different hospitals and regions. For junior doctors, locum work can also serve as a valuable way to “try before they buy”, offering insight into various States, Hospitals and work environments before committing to a long-term role as part of their medical career pathway.

• Yes, IMGs can work in Australia, but they must meet specific requirements, including assessment of qualifications, English proficiency, and registration with AHPRA. Additionally, they may need to work in designated areas of need or complete supervised practice periods.

• DPA classifications identify regions with a shortage of medical practitioners. Working in a DPA can provide IMGs with more job opportunities and may be a requirement for certain registration and visa processes. Read more

• Locum assignments can vary widely, ranging from a single day to several months. The duration depends on the healthcare facility’s needs, the doctor’s availability, and the specific role being filled.

• Yes, many locum doctors bring their families during assignments. However, it’s essential to consider factors like accommodation and travel requirements for your family.

• There’s a plethora of opportunities across diverse settings for doctors to explore as a locum. Your expertise/ level of training, schedule and adaptability will dictate the options available to you. From Private GP clinics and AMS clinics to both Public and Private Hospitals, as well as opportunities covering Events and Telehealth, there a wide range of positions to explore.

• Locum doctors in Australia can earn between $1,200 and $3,000 per day, depending on factors such as specialty, location, and experience. For instance, during periods of high demand, some locum positions have offered rates exceeding $3,000 plus per day.

Several factors can affect locum pay rates:

• → Specialty and experience: Specialists and highly experienced doctors typically command higher rates.

• → Location: Rural or underserved areas may offer higher pay to attract talent.

• → Urgency and demand: Short-notice assignments or high-demand periods can lead to increased rates.

• → Shift type: Night shifts, weekends, and holidays may come with premium pay.

As a junior doctor working as a locum in Australia, your earnings can vary based on several factors including your specialty, years of experience, location, and contract terms. 

• → Resident Medical Officer (RMO) locum rates typically start at around $85 per hour and can increase significantly. Urgent or after-hours RMO shifts may command rates exceeding $200 per hour.

• → Registrar locum rates usually begin at approximately $115 per hour, with some shifts paying up to $300 per hour depending on demand and complexity. 

Your Recruitment Consultant can help you understand locum preferences and provide a clear indication of the rates you can expect, tailored to your skills and availability. 

Much like the junior doctor market, specialist locum doctor rates in Australia vary based on location, urgency, and the specific department you work in. 

• → Consultant locum rates usually start at around $2,500 per day.

• → In urgent or high-demand situations, rates can increase significantly, sometimes reaching up to $4,500 per day in dire circumstances.

Factors such as rural or remote locations, after-hours shifts, and specialty demand also influence these rates.