What Makes a Great Reference for Locum Applications

When applying for locum doctor jobs in Australia, your references matter more than most people realise. Hospitals often decide between two candidates based on the quality and credibility of their referees alone.

1. Choose Recent and Relevant Referees

Select referees who have directly supervised your clinical work in the last 12 months. Consultants, Directors of Medical Services, or senior registrars you’ve worked closely with are ideal. Avoid listing peers or personal contacts as they carry less weight with credentialing teams.

2. Pick Referees Who Can Speak to Your Skills

A good referee should be able to comment on your clinical ability, teamwork, reliability, and communication. Generic references such as “pleasant to work with” don’t add much value. Hospitals want to hear specific examples of how you perform under pressure and interact with staff and patients.

3. Always Ask Permission

Never include someone’s details without asking first. Let them know where you’re applying and what kind of work you’re seeking. This helps them tailor their feedback and keeps your professional relationships strong.

4. Keep Your Referees Updated

For locum doctors, it can be challenging to maintain consistent referees. If you’re working short contracts in the same hospitals, ask your clinical leads early if they’d be happy to provide references in the future. Rotate between a few regular referees to avoid overloading any one person with repeated calls.

5. Provide Contact Details Clearly

Include your referee’s full name, title, hospital, phone number, and email address. Missing or outdated details can delay credentialing and cost you potential shifts.