Choosing between locum vs permanent doctor roles can feel overwhelming. As a doctor, your career path is shaped not just by clinical interests but also by lifestyle preferences, income goals, and long-term stability. Understanding the pros and cons of each option is essential to make an informed decision that aligns with your personal and professional priorities.
Factors such as lifestyle, financial objectives, professional development, and job security play a crucial role in deciding whether a locum or permanent role is the right fit. In Australia, demand for both locum vs permanent doctor roles is strong across metropolitan, regional, and rural settings, providing a wide range of career opportunities.
Whether you’re starting your career, returning after a break, or seeking greater autonomy, this guide will explore key differences between locum and permanent work, helping you choose the path that suits you best.
What is locum work and who is it best suited to?
Locum work allows doctors to take on short-term or fixed-term placements across a variety of healthcare settings. These roles can last anywhere from a few days to several months. Hospitals and clinics commonly use locum doctors to cover workforce gaps, leave periods, or times of increased demand.
The benefits of locum flexibility
One of the main advantages of locum roles is flexibility. Doctors can choose when and where they work, making it ideal for those seeking control over their schedule or looking to explore different clinical environments before committing long-term.
Locum work is particularly popular for doctors who want to:
- Supplement their income
- Gain exposure to new specialties
- Trial different workplaces before committing long term
Financial incentives and travel
In many cases, locum roles offer higher daily rates. This is particularly true for placements in regional, rural, and remote areas. Travel and accommodation are often arranged for you, which helps reduce out-of-pocket expenses. This financial aspect makes locum work attractive, especially if you do not have long-term personal commitments tying you to one specific location. For more insights on locum pay scales, check out our 2026 Salary Guide.
Considerations for locum work
While the benefits are strong, locum work may not suit everyone. Contracts are temporary, which means you have less job security compared to permanent staff. You also have limited access to benefits such as paid leave or professional development allowances. If you prefer stability, predictable income, and long-term workplace relationships, you may find the locum lifestyle less appealing.
What does permanent doctor work offer?
Permanent doctor roles provide long-term employment within a single organisation or healthcare network. These positions are usually structured around consistent rosters, defined responsibilities, and clear career pathways.
Stability and security
One of the primary benefits of permanent work is stability. You receive a regular salary and paid leave entitlements. You also gain access to benefits such as professional development funding, mentoring, and opportunities for career progression.
Permanent roles are particularly appealing if you are looking to:
- Settle in one specific location
- Build long-term relationships with patients
- Progress into leadership or management roles
Team culture and belonging
Permanent positions often offer a greater sense of belonging within a team. You become embedded within the workplace culture and build strong professional bonds. For doctors with family commitments or a preference for routine, permanent work provides essential peace of mind and balance.
Considerations for permanent work
Permanent roles generally offer less flexibility than locum work. Roster patterns, location, and leave availability are often fixed. Additionally, pay rates may be lower than those available through locum placements, especially when compared to high-demand remote areas. However, some doctors choose to combine a permanent role with occasional locum shifts to maintain a mix of stability and variety.
How do I decide between locum vs permanent doctor roles?
There is no single answer to whether locum vs permanent doctor roles is the better choice. It depends on career stage, lifestyle preferences, and financial goals. Many doctors transition between locum and permanent roles throughout their careers to balance flexibility, income, and stability.
At Healthcare Australia, we support doctors across both locum and permanent opportunities. We help you explore options that align with your professional goals. Whether you are seeking flexibility, stability, or a combination of both, our team is here to guide you.
To explore current opportunities or speak with our team about your next career move, learn more about our roles for doctors here. We connect you with the right opportunities across Australia to ensure your career moves in the direction you want.
