Locum Doctor Work in Victoria: A How-To Guide

[8 min read | Locum by Location | May 2026]

TL;DR: Locum work in Victoria offers unique opportunities compared to other states. Melbourne's locum roles are competitive, but regional towns like Bendigo and Ballarat offer ample opportunities. Pay rates are flexible with superannuation included. AHPRA registration requirements.

What is the locum landscape in Victoria like?

Victoria presents a distinct locum landscape compared to states like New South Wales. Unlike NSW, which has a centralised health system, Victoria's hospitals and health services manage their own staffing and recruitment. This decentralised approach means locum opportunities vary significantly across the state.

Melbourne, as the capital and a major training hub, sees a high concentration of doctors. Consequently, locum work in Melbourne can be more competitive, with many shifts filled by local doctors. However, private hospitals in metropolitan areas often have gaps, particularly for ED registrars and FACEMs.

For those at a more junior level, regional Victoria offers abundant locum work. Towns such as Bendigo, Shepparton, and Ballarat regularly need locum doctors to fill roster gaps. These locations are just a few hours from Melbourne, providing flexibility without the need to venture too far from the city.

How does Victoria differ from New South Wales for locums?

Victoria's health system is less centralised than New South Wales. This means hospitals in Victoria hire independently, which can be advantageous for locum doctors seeking diverse opportunities. More locum work is available in regional towns than in Melbourne, offering a different experience for those willing to travel.

The pay structures in Victoria are flexible, especially for doctors working under an ABN. Superannuation is included in the quoted locum rate, which is an important consideration when comparing offers. This inclusion makes it easier to understand the total compensation package.

Regional Victoria is known for its historic towns and tight-knit communities. Many doctors find the lifestyle balance appealing, with the regions offering a relaxed pace of life while still being close enough to Melbourne for convenience.

What are the common locum roles in Victoria?

Locum roles in Victoria vary widely, with opportunities in both metropolitan and regional settings. Common roles include GP + Emergency (GP VMO), Aboriginal and Indigenous Health, and HMO work.

GP + Emergency roles typically involve a mix of clinic work during the day and emergency or on-call duties after hours. These positions are common in small rural hospitals and offer pay rates ranging from A$2,000 to A$4,000 per day.

Roles in Aboriginal Medical Services (AMS) focus on First Nations health and are highly rewarding. These positions offer strong community and team support, with pay rates between A$1,500 and A$2,000 per day.

HMO work often involves ED or ward cover, with pay rates from A$120 to A$200 per hour depending on skill set, location, and shift timing. Adult Retrieval Victoria (ARV) provides 24/7 support for complex patient transport and advice.

What does this mean for locum doctors in Victoria?

For locum doctors considering Victoria, the state offers a wide range of opportunities, particularly in regional areas. The demand for locum doctors in rural towns is consistent, providing a steady stream of work. The lifestyle balance near Melbourne is another attractive aspect, allowing doctors to enjoy both professional and personal satisfaction.

Flexible pay and work arrangements make locum work in Victoria appealing. Doctors can choose from different payment options, with most payments made via ABN or a company rather than PAYG. This flexibility allows doctors to tailor their work to their personal and financial preferences.