Australian Locum Doctor Pay Rates 2026–2027
Indicative daily rates for locum doctors across Australia, informed by recent advertised vacancies. Rates vary by specialty, location, experience, shift type and contractual arrangements.
The rates on this page are indicative planning estimates informed by recent advertised vacancies and published rate information. They are not verified national averages. Daily shift lengths vary. Rates may include or exclude superannuation, GST, loading and on-call payments depending on the contract. Always confirm current rates directly with the employer or recruitment agency.
Consultant Locum Doctor Rates
Indicative daily rates (AUD). Shift lengths vary — confirm hours per shift when comparing rates.
| Specialty | Indicative Daily Rate |
|---|---|
| Emergency Medicine Consultant (FACEM) | $2,700–$3,750 |
| Consultant Psychiatrist | $2,200–$3,200 |
| Paediatric Consultant | $2,500–$3,700 |
| O&G Consultant | $2,700–$3,250 |
| Anaesthetist Consultant | $2,500–$3,200 |
| General Medicine Consultant | $2,000–$2,800 |
| Haematology Consultant | $2,200–$2,800 |
| Rural Generalist / GP-ED | $2,300–$2,850 |
Registrar Locum Doctor Rates
Indicative daily rates (AUD). Registrar rates vary significantly with experience level, seniority and supervision requirements.
| Specialty | Indicative Daily Rate |
|---|---|
| Emergency Medicine Registrar | $1,200–$2,500 |
| Psychiatry Registrar | $1,200–$2,000 |
| O&G Registrar | $1,400–$2,300 |
| General Medicine Registrar | $1,000–$1,800 |
Real Vacancy Rate Examples
The following rates are from specific advertised vacancies. They illustrate how rates vary by location, specialty and urgency — they are not averages.
What Affects Locum Doctor Pay Rates?
Location
Regional and remote positions typically attract higher rates than metropolitan roles to reflect travel, isolation and limited local workforce. Remote and very remote locations may attract additional allowances.
Urgency
Urgent or short-notice cover often commands a premium. Hospitals with immediate staffing gaps may offer higher rates to secure a doctor quickly.
Shift Type and Hours
Daily rates are calculated against a standard shift length, which varies between employers. Night shifts, on-call and callback arrangements may attract additional loading. Always confirm the hours included in a quoted daily rate.
GST and Superannuation
Locum doctors operating through an ABN may charge GST on their fees. Superannuation obligations depend on the contractual arrangement. Some advertised rates are inclusive of super; others are exclusive. Confirm this before accepting a position.
Experience and Seniority
More experienced doctors, particularly those with specialist fellowship, typically command higher rates. Registrar rates vary considerably with level of training and supervision requirements.
Specialty and Subspecialty
Specialties with fewer available locums relative to demand — such as Emergency Medicine, Psychiatry and Paediatrics in regional areas — tend to attract higher rates.
Frequently Asked Questions
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