Rural Medical Jobs in Australia
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What should I expect from a medical recruitment agency?
There are many medical recruitment agencies in the marketplace providing different services, expertise, and knowledge. Some are boutique and focus on core specialty areas, while others take a generalist approach across a range of disciplines, clients, and locations.
It’s important you find the right medical recruitment agency for you, that understands your professional needs and that you’re happy to represent you to employers.
What should I expect from Salt Medical Recruitment?
You’ll get access to a wide range of locum and permanent job opportunities from our extensive network of clients in the prehospital, primary care and secondary care sectors across Australia.
For doctors that Join our SALT Talent Network, we go above and beyond to support you, act as your liaison, and provide timely advice and market insights. We endeavour to partner with you throughout your career so we can understand your personal motivations, professional goals, and salary expectations.
What are the advantages of using a medical recruitment agency?
Our technical understanding of medical recruitment, market knowledge, relationships and vast network of clients and doctors gives us a competitive edge. We have exclusive access to unique opportunities from a select group of clients, as well as preferred supplier agreements with state and territory public health services.
We’re here to make the process a breeze by handling the job search, contract negotiations, credentialing, payment process and travel logistics. Our goal is to support you and match you with exclusive opportunities so you can focus on what you do best.
What’s the difference between a recruitment agency and an employment agency?
Traditionally, recruitment agencies focused on finding candidates for clients’ job vacancies, whereas an employment agency treats the candidate as their client. At Salt Medical Recruitment we offer both services to our doctors and clients.
For us, it’s about connecting care givers with care providers to make healthcare accessible for all. We do this by providing an exemplary service and building long term relationships with our stakeholders.
What rate can I expect as a locum doctor in Australia?
Locum doctors’ pay rates are usually higher than permanent doctors due to being a casual contractor and outside an award.
On average*:
- Specialist Doctors can earn between $2000 – $3500 per day
- Rural Generalists can earn between $1800 – $3500 per day
- General Practitioners can earn between $1200 – $1800 per day
- CMO’s can earn between can earn between $1600 – $2500 per day
- Registrars can earn between $140 – $190 AUD per hour
- RMO’s can earn between $80 – $150 AUD per hour
*Rates are a guideline only and are subject to change. Funding models, the rural or remoteness of the healthcare facility, availability of talent, competition (for sought-after specialties or select skills), and urgency can determine market forces and rates.
While it’s exciting to get the highest rate possible, its important you understand what the role entails and if it’s a good match for you as a locum doctor. Always remember your initial motivation for a locum role. Is it to earn extra money or to achieve greater work life balance? For example, if you want to combine a family holiday with a locum experience, the highest rate with onerous on-call demands might not suit you.
Please reach out to discuss locum doctor rates in Australia and how we can find your perfect role.
How do I get paid?
Salt Medical is set up to accommodate several payment options such as PAYG, ABN Sole trader and PTY Ltd. We also assist with timesheet approvals and invoicing so we can ensure you are always paid on time.
Why do some agencies pay me as an ABN sole trader and others as PAYG?
These payment options will depend on the employer’s internal procedures, Australian / Trans Tasmin taxation laws, Work Health and Safety (WHS) and State based labour hire legislation.
For example, in Queensland and Victoria where labour-hire licensing legislation exists, agencies need to have the necessary insurances and labour hire licences to supply casual workers. Mandatory on-hired worker reporting and large fines may be incurred if rules aren’t followed accordingly.
In these states, ABN Sole Traders are considered employees of the on-hired locum agency. As the employer, we therefore have a responsibility to ensure both tax and superannuation is paid accordingly.
We understand that a locum doctor may have a preference on how they wish to be paid and we will try to accommodate requests where possible. However, our priority is to be transparent in our dealings and comply with WHS and labour hire legislation to minimise risk for all parties.
Can I work as a PTY Ltd through Salt Medical?
If your company is registered as a Pty Ltd, you can work and receive payments through your company as a subcontractor. In this scenario, payments are made to your company (following submittal of a tax compliant invoice) and tax and super will not be deducted. Bear in mind, it is your company’s responsibility to declare these earnings, ensure tax and superannuation is paid, and have necessary insurances in place for its workers.
Can I bring my family when I travel for locum?
Yes! Many doctors are interested in working holiday style placements, accompanied by their partner and children. We ask that doctors communicate the request upfront so we can discuss family friendly accommodation with our client. In most locations, the quality of accommodation is of a high standard and within proximity to the hospital or healthcare facility.
Who will organise the locum travel and accommodation?
Your dedicated Salt Medical Recruitment consultant will organise travel and accommodation with help from our travel concierge service. We also liaise with the hospital or clinic on your behalf ensuring a seamless transition.
Why is the credentialing paperwork so tedious?
With each health service having specific credentialing requirements, we know the paperwork can be onerous. It’s an important step in the process and you don’t want to miss out on the perfect locum opportunity, so we’re here to make it as stress free as possible. Salt Medical’s bespoke digital document management system helps streamline the process, making it easier to complete online. To find out more about our process click here.
What type of locum work is available and where?
With approximately 300+ jobs advertised on our website at any one time, specialist and junior doctors will be spoilt for choice. As an approved supplier of medical locum services, we have agreements in place with all major state health services, as well as exclusive relationships with clients in the not for profit and private sector. We also look for unique opportunities that provide enriching and diverse experiences for our doctors who join our Salt Talent Network.
Go to our Job Seekers page to view a variety of roles or contact us to chat about how we can help!
Are interviews necessary for locum or are they for permanent roles only?
Interviews are usually for permanent roles however there are occasional interviews for long-term or fixed-term locum roles. Read our Guide To Locum Interviews for tips on how to prepare and questions you might be asked.
You have many locum roles. Can you help with permanent opportunities?
The majority of our opportunities that we advertise are locum positions, however, we offer our doctors and clients access to our bespoke permanent recruitment campaigns and Executive Search services.
If you are a doctor looking for a career change, contact us to find out how we can assist.
If you are a client looking for an effective and creative approach to recruitment, find out more on our Client Services page.
Why should I join your agency when there are so many around?
Good question! We get that it’s a competitive market and we must be on top of our game to represent the most talented Doctors in the Australian marketplace – you!
We promise to listen to your needs and always be transparent. By understanding your unique story and professional goals we will help you find the financial freedom, work life balance or adventure you’re looking for. We want every doctor, client, and colleague to feel our care factor (it’s our X-factor) and passion for excellence in medical recruitment when they join our agency.
To find out more about our commitment to medical recruitment happiness, visit About Us and our Purpose and Values.
Give us a call to discuss how our personalised service can help find your next successful hire or career move!
Access to quality healthcare is a fundamental right of every individual, regardless of their geographic location. However, rural areas often struggle to maintain a sufficient number of medical professionals due to factors such as limited resources, isolation, and lifestyle differences. Despite these challenges, rural medical jobs in Australia present unique opportunities for healthcare professionals seeking a fulfilling career.
Importance of Rural Medical Jobs
Rural medical jobs play a vital role in ensuring equitable access to healthcare services across the country. These jobs bring medical professionals to underserved areas, where they can make a significant impact on the health and well-being of local communities. By working in rural areas, healthcare professionals have the opportunity to address healthcare disparities and provide comprehensive care to populations that would otherwise face limited access to medical services.
Advantages of Working in Rural Areas
Working in rural areas offers a range of advantages for medical professionals. One notable advantage is the ability to build strong relationships with patients and the community. In smaller towns, healthcare providers often have the opportunity to establish personal connections with their patients, resulting in more holistic and patient-centered care. Additionally, rural medical jobs provide a diverse range of clinical experiences, allowing practitioners to develop a broad skill set and enhance their professional growth.
Initiatives to Attract and Retain Rural Medical Professionals
Recognizing the importance of rural healthcare, various initiatives have been implemented to attract and retain medical professionals in rural areas. These initiatives include targeted recruitment programs, rural placement opportunities during medical training, and scholarships specifically designed for students pursuing rural medical careers. By incentivizing healthcare professionals to work in rural areas, these initiatives aim to bridge the healthcare gap between urban and rural communities.
Training and Support for Rural Healthcare Providers
To ensure the effectiveness of rural medical professionals, specialized training and ongoing support are crucial. Medical education institutions and professional organizations offer programs tailored to the unique needs of rural practitioners. These programs focus on rural medicine, telehealth, emergency care, and other essential skills required in rural settings. By providing adequate training and support, healthcare professionals can feel more confident in their abilities to meet the diverse healthcare needs of rural communities.
Government Incentives for Rural Medical Jobs
The Australian government recognizes the importance of rural medical jobs and has implemented several incentives to attract and retain healthcare professionals in rural areas. These incentives include financial support such as relocation assistance, grants for establishing medical practices, and income support for doctors working in remote locations. Additionally, there are specific visa programs and pathways designed to facilitate the recruitment of overseas-trained doctors to work in rural Australia.
Impact on Rural Communities
The presence of medical professionals in rural areas has a significant impact on the overall well-being of rural communities. Access to healthcare services improves health outcomes, reduces health disparities, and enhances the overall quality of life for residents. Moreover, the availability of medical jobs in rural areas contributes to the local economy by creating employment opportunities and supporting community development.
Closing Thoughts
Rural medical jobs in Australia offer healthcare professionals a unique and rewarding career path. While they come with challenges, the opportunities to make a positive impact on underserved communities, build strong patient relationships, and gain diverse clinical experiences make rural medical jobs an attractive option. With continued support and initiatives, we can bridge the healthcare gap between urban and rural areas, ensuring that all Australians have access to quality healthcare services.
FAQs
1. Are rural medical jobs in Australia in high demand?
Yes, there is a high demand for medical professionals in rural areas of Australia. The shortage of healthcare providers in these regions has created opportunities for qualified individuals to make a significant impact on underserved communities.
2. What incentives are available for healthcare professionals working in rural areas?
The Australian government provides various incentives, including financial support, relocation assistance, grants, and income support, to attract and retain medical professionals in rural areas. There are also visa programs and pathways specifically designed for overseas-trained doctors.
3. Do rural medical jobs offer professional growth opportunities?
While rural medical jobs may have limitations in terms of resources and specialist services, they provide healthcare professionals with diverse clinical experiences. These experiences contribute to professional growth and the development of a broad skill set.
4. How can healthcare professionals contribute to rural communities?
Healthcare professionals can contribute to rural communities by providing comprehensive care, addressing healthcare disparities, and building strong relationships with patients. Their presence improves access to healthcare services and enhances the overall well-being of rural residents.
5. What support is available for rural healthcare providers?
Specialized training programs and ongoing support are available for rural healthcare providers. These programs focus on rural medicine, telehealth, emergency care, and other essential skills required in rural settings, ensuring that healthcare professionals feel confident and well-prepared to meet the unique challenges of rural practice.