Why Are More Doctors Choosing Locum Work?

Locum work used to be a stopgap for doctors between permanent positions. Today, many doctors are choosing locuming as a long-term career option. The flexibility, experience, and earning potential make it increasingly attractive across Australia.

1. Freedom to Choose

The main reason doctors start locuming is control over their schedule. You decide:

• When to work
  
  
• Where to go
  
  
• How long to stay

After years of rigid rosters, being able to pick your shifts and locations can feel life changing. Flexibility is one of the biggest draws of locum work.

2. Better Income

Locum work can be financially rewarding. Recent rates show:

• $2,000 to $3,000 per day in rural Western Australia
  
  
• $250 to $300 per hour for emergency department shifts in New South Wales
  
  
• Specialist locums earning up to three times the salary of permanent doctors
  
  

This makes locum work appealing for those who want to supplement income or earn more while maintaining flexibility.

3. Real Experience

Locuming pushes you out of your comfort zone. Every hospital is different, and every shift teaches you something new. You manage a broader range of cases, develop independence, and gain skills that permanent positions may not offer.

4. The Catch

Locum work has trade-offs:

• No paid leave or sick leave
  
  
• Travel fatigue, especially in rural or regional placements
  
  
• Less job security and continuity of care
  
  

Even with these drawbacks, many doctors find the benefits outweigh the challenges.

Pros

Flexibility

Travel fatigue

Higher pay

Cons

No leave entitlements

Broader clinical experience

Limited continuity

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