When Is the Right Time to Start Locuming in Australia and New Zealand?
Locum work has become one of the most popular career paths for doctors across Australia and New Zealand. Offering higher earning potential, flexibility, and the opportunity to experience different hospitals and communities.
But one of the most common questions doctors ask is:
When is the right time to start locuming?
If you’re early in your medical career or considering a change from permanent work, this guide will walk you through the ideal timing, requirements, and signs you’re ready to start locum work.
The Minimum Experience Needed to Start Locuming
One of the most important things doctors should know:
✅ You generally need to be PGY3 or above to start locuming
Most hospitals and healthcare services require doctors to:
- Have completed PGY1 and PGY2
- Have finished core general ward rotations
- Be confident working independently
This usually means doctors can begin locum work from PGY3 onwards, once they’ve built strong clinical foundations and can safely manage patients with minimal supervision.
Some senior registrar and consultant-level locum roles require additional experience or specialist registration.
Why PGY3 Is the Ideal Starting Point
By PGY3, most doctors:
✔ Have managed acute and general medical cases
✔ Understand hospital systems and workflows
✔ Are confident making clinical decisions
✔ Can adapt quickly to new environments
Best Times in Your Career to Start Locuming
🩺 1. After Completing Your General Ward Runs (PGY3+)
This is when most doctors naturally transition into locum roles.
You’ll be clinically capable, highly in demand, and able to access a wider range of placements.
🌍 2. When You Want Flexibility or Variety
Locuming is ideal if you:
- Feel burnt out in a permanent role
- Want to travel around Australia or New Zealand
- Want exposure to different hospitals and specialties
- Need control over your schedule
Many doctors use locum work to reset their careers and lifestyle.
💰 3. When You Want to Increase Your Income
Locum doctors often earn significantly higher hourly rates than permanent roles, especially in high-need regions.
This makes locuming popular for doctors who want to:
- Pay off debt faster
- Save for a home or travel
- Boost earnings short term
🧭 4. When You’re Exploring Where to Settle Long-Term
Locuming allows you to:
- Trial hospitals before committing permanently
- Experience regional vs metro medicine
- Build strong professional networks
Many permanent roles are offered directly from locum placements.
Why Locum Work Is Booming in Australia and New Zealand
Both countries offer:
✅ Ongoing doctor shortages
✅ Excellent locum pay rates
✅ Strong hospital systems
✅ High demand in regional areas
✅ Travel and accommodation support
This makes the region one of the strongest locum markets globally.
At STAT Recruitment, we specialise in placing doctors into high-quality locum roles across Australia and New Zealand. Whether you’re looking for short-term contracts, regional experience, higher earning potential, or flexible scheduling, we match you with opportunities that align with your career goals.
We offer:
✔ Access to exclusive locum doctor jobs
✔ Competitive pay rates
✔ Travel and accommodation support
✔ Honest advice about when and where to locum
✔ Ongoing career guidance
If you’re ready to explore locum opportunities, or simply want to understand your options, contact STAT Recruitment today and take the next step with confidence.
