The Rise of Telehealth Locum Jobs in Australia
[6 min read | Locum Pay & Rates | May 2026]
TL;DR: Telehealth locum jobs in Australia are expanding rapidly, offering doctors the flexibility to work remotely and support communities nationwide. This trend provides a variety of opportunities, from mental health to chronic disease management, without the need for travel. Explore key telehealth providers and whether this career path suits you. For more details, see ABC News.
- Telehealth enables doctors to work from any location while consulting patients nationwide.
- Locum doctors can choose shifts that fit their personal schedules and commitments.
- Telehealth supports rural and remote communities by providing access to healthcare without relocation.
Sources: 3 cited below ↓
Why is telehealth locum work growing?
Telehealth is revolutionising healthcare in Australia by allowing doctors to work remotely, providing care to patients across the country. This model offers locum doctors a range of benefits, including flexibility, convenience, and the ability to support communities without the need to travel or adhere to traditional hospital shift constraints.
The growth of telehealth is driven by several factors. Doctors can select shifts that align with their personal schedules, whether that involves family commitments, part-time hospital work, or travel. Remote access enables doctors to work from home, private offices, or co-working spaces, consulting patients anywhere in Australia. This is particularly beneficial for rural and remote communities, where telehealth locums can provide essential care without the need for relocation.
Telehealth also exposes doctors to a diverse array of cases, from mental health to chronic disease management. This variety enhances professional development and keeps the work engaging. Emerging opportunities in telehealth include platforms supporting medicinal cannabis, digital prescribing, and virtual clinics, which allow doctors to explore innovative areas of medicine.
A$1,200/day
typical earnings for telehealth locums, industry data (2026)
Who are the key telehealth providers?
Several telehealth providers in Australia offer locum opportunities, each catering to different aspects of healthcare. Updoc provides general telehealth consultations with flexible shift options, allowing doctors to manage their schedules effectively. InstantScripts focuses on prescription management and medication review via telehealth, offering a niche service that is in high demand. Medmate offers telehealth roles across general practice and chronic care, catering to a broad spectrum of patient needs.
These platforms are transforming how doctors work by providing real-time listings and enabling locums to select shifts that suit their schedules. This flexibility is a significant draw for many doctors considering telehealth locum work.
💡Smart Tip
Consider specialising in a niche area of telehealth to increase demand for your services.
What does this mean for locum doctors in New South Wales?
For locum doctors in New South Wales, the rise of telehealth presents a unique opportunity to expand their practice without geographical limitations. The state's diverse population and varying healthcare needs mean that telehealth can play a crucial role in delivering timely and effective care. Doctors can engage with a wide range of patients, from urban centres to remote communities, without the need for physical relocation.
Telehealth also allows doctors in New South Wales to maintain a work-life balance by choosing shifts that fit their personal and professional commitments. This flexibility is particularly beneficial for those balancing family life or other responsibilities. Additionally, the state's healthcare system can benefit from the reduced strain on physical facilities, as telehealth can alleviate some of the demand for in-person consultations.
Telehealth offers locum doctors in New South Wales the flexibility to work remotely while providing essential care across the state.
