Locum Marketplace vs Agency: Understanding Your Options

8 min read | Marketplace vs Agency | June 2026

TL;DR: Locum marketplaces offer a digital platform for doctors to find temporary positions directly, often with lower fees compared to traditional agencies. Agencies, while charging higher fees, provide personalized services such as accommodation and travel logistics. Choosing between the two depends on your priorities for cost, convenience, and support.

🤝 What is a locum marketplace and how does it work?

A locum marketplace is a digital platform that connects doctors with healthcare facilities looking for temporary staffing solutions. These platforms streamline the process of finding locum positions by offering a user-friendly interface where doctors can browse job listings directly. Unlike traditional agencies, marketplaces often eliminate the middleman, allowing for more straightforward communication between doctors and employers.

Locum marketplaces have gained popularity due to their transparency in job listings and fee structures. This transparency means that doctors can see exactly what they will earn from a job and any associated costs, such as travel or accommodation, upfront. This clarity is a significant advantage over traditional agencies, where such details might not be disclosed until later in the recruitment process.

Moreover, locum marketplaces cater to the growing demand for flexible work arrangements in the healthcare sector. As healthcare needs rise, more doctors are seeking opportunities that allow them to balance work and personal life better. This shift towards flexible work arrangements is in line with global trends, where digital solutions are increasingly being adopted in various industries, including healthcare staffing.

💰 How do agency fees compare to locum marketplace fees?

Agency fees for locum placements typically range from 10% to 20% of the doctor's earnings (AMA 2022). These fees cover the agency's services, which often include recruitment, placement, and additional support such as arranging accommodation and travel. In contrast, locum marketplaces generally charge lower fees, as they operate on a digital platform that reduces overhead costs.

The difference in fees between agencies and marketplaces is primarily due to the level of service provided. Agencies offer personalized services, which can be beneficial for doctors who prefer a hands-off approach to finding locum work. They handle logistics, negotiations, and sometimes even manage the paperwork, providing a comprehensive service package.

However, for doctors who are comfortable managing these aspects themselves, locum marketplaces offer a cost-effective alternative. These platforms typically charge a flat fee or a lower percentage of earnings, allowing doctors to retain more of their income. The choice between the two often comes down to personal preference and the value placed on convenience versus cost savings.

[PRO TIP] Pro tip: If you prioritize keeping more of your earnings, consider using a locum marketplace with lower fees over a traditional agency.

📋 Why choose a locum marketplace over an agency?

Choosing a locum marketplace over an agency can offer several advantages, particularly in terms of cost, transparency, and flexibility. Locum marketplaces, by design, provide a more streamlined and transparent process for finding temporary positions. This transparency extends to job listings and fee structures, allowing doctors to make informed decisions about the opportunities that best fit their needs.

One of the primary benefits of using a locum marketplace is the potential for cost savings. With lower fees than traditional agencies, doctors can retain more of their earnings. This can be particularly appealing for those who frequently take on locum work and wish to maximize their income.

Additionally, locum marketplaces offer greater flexibility. Doctors have the freedom to choose from a wide range of job listings, often updated in real-time, and can select positions that align with their preferences and schedules. This flexibility is ideal for doctors who value work-life balance and wish to tailor their careers around their personal lives.

⚖️ What are the potential drawbacks of using a locum marketplace?

While locum marketplaces offer many benefits, there are potential drawbacks to consider. One of the main challenges is the reduced level of support compared to traditional agencies. Agencies often provide comprehensive services, including arranging travel and accommodation, which can be a significant advantage for doctors who prefer not to handle these logistics themselves.

Another potential drawback is the reliance on digital platforms. While many doctors appreciate the convenience of online job searching, others may find the lack of personal interaction a downside. Agencies typically offer personalized services and can provide guidance and support throughout the placement process, which some doctors may find reassuring.

Finally, while locum marketplaces offer transparency in job listings and fees, they may not provide the same level of job security as traditional agencies. Agencies often have established relationships with healthcare facilities, which can lead to more consistent job opportunities.

📍 What does this mean for locum doctors in New South Wales?

For locum doctors in New South Wales, the choice between a marketplace and an agency can significantly impact their work experience and income. The state's healthcare system, like much of Australia, relies heavily on locum doctors to fill temporary staffing shortages, making both options viable for finding work.

Using a locum marketplace in New South Wales can provide doctors with a broader range of opportunities. The flexibility and transparency offered by these platforms allow doctors to select positions that best fit their professional goals and personal needs. This can be particularly beneficial in a state with diverse healthcare demands, from urban centres like Sydney to rural and remote areas.

However, it's essential for locum doctors in New South Wales to consider the potential need for support services. In a state with significant geographic diversity, having access to services like travel and accommodation arrangements can be invaluable. Agencies often excel in providing these services, offering a level of convenience that can be crucial for doctors unfamiliar with certain regions.

Ultimately, the decision for locum doctors in New South Wales will depend on their individual preferences and priorities. Those who value transparency and autonomy may find a locum marketplace more appealing, while those who prioritize support and convenience might prefer a traditional agency.

How do locum marketplaces ensure quality and reliability?

Locum marketplaces ensure quality and reliability by implementing rigorous vetting processes for both doctors and employers. These platforms require doctors to be registered with AHPRA and meet specific professional standards before they can accept assignments. This ensures that only qualified and competent professionals are available for locum work.

Employers, too, are screened to ensure they provide safe and supportive work environments. Reviews and feedback mechanisms allow doctors to share their experiences, helping to maintain high standards across the platform. This feedback loop is crucial in fostering a reliable and trustworthy ecosystem for both doctors and healthcare facilities.