Why More Pharmacists Are Choosing Locum Work for Flexibility

Written on 01/29/2026

Are you feeling stuck in a routine? Wondering how to take back control of your Pharmacy career?

You’re not alone. In a fast-evolving healthcare landscape, many Pharmacists are walking away from rigid rosters and traditional employment to embrace locum pharmacist jobs, and for good reason.

Locum work is no longer just a temporary fill-in gig. It’s become a preferred lifestyle choice for Pharmacists who want flexibility, variety, and professional growth on their own terms.

At LocumCo, we’ve spent 39 years supporting Pharmacists in finding work that fits their life, not the other way around.

Why Flexibility Matters in Modern Pharmacy Careers

The reality of Pharmacy practice is changing. Burnout, increasing workloads, and lack of work-life balance have left many Pharmacists searching for alternatives. Locum work is ticking the right boxes, offering:

  • Choice over work schedules
  • The freedom to travel and explore different locations
  • Exposure to diverse clinical settings
  • Higher earning potential in some cases
  • A break from the same four walls

And with the rise of tools like LocumCo+™, managing your shifts, applications and preferences has never been easier.

The Rise of Locum Work: Why Pharmacists Are Making the Switch

More pharmacists are embracing locum work for its flexibility, higher pay rates, and improved work-life balance compared to traditional pharmacy roles.

1. Freedom to Choose Your Schedule

Whether you want to work just a few days a month or back-to-back shifts, locum work gives you the power to decide. You’re no longer tied to long contracts or rigid rosters.

Example: You could be working a high-demand shift in Hobart this week and heading to a rural pharmacy in QLD next, and you get to choose when.

2. Diverse Experience in Different Settings

Locuming gives you the chance to work in hospitals, small-town community pharmacies, city-based chains, and everything in between. This keeps your skills sharp, broadens your knowledge, and gives you a better feel for what suits your long-term goals.

3. Opportunity to Travel

With locum roles available across Australia, from the Central Coast to Katherine, NT, locum work lets you explore new regions while building your career. Many of our locums treat it as a travel opportunity with pay.

Check out our featured locum roles to see what’s available right now.

4. Better Work-Life Balance

Locuming lets you prioritise personal goals, family commitments, or study without sacrificing your career. You set your availability, and LocumCo helps match you with roles that fit.

Want time off next month? No problem. Looking to boost your earnings during the holidays? We’ve got you covered.

5. Shorter Turnaround from Application to Placement

Many Pharmacists are surprised at how quickly they can get started. In some cases, LocumCo has filled urgent pharmacy shifts within an hour of request, helping you land a role fast, with minimal stress.

Why LocumCo is the First Choice for Locum Pharmacist Jobs

Thousands of Pharmacists choose us for a reason. 

We offer:

  • 24/7 support with real humans
  • Access to over 150 live jobs at any time
  • Reverse Job Board to help employers find you
  • LocumCo+™ App for fast applications, real-time updates and messaging
  • Clear, fair contracts with no hidden fees
  • Tools to manage your CV, track applications and get alerts

Whether you’re after city-based shifts or regional opportunities, we help you find locum pharmacist jobs that work around your life.

How to Get Started with Locum Work

Before you begin, make sure you have:

  • A valid AHPRA registration
  • Professional indemnity insurance
  • An ABN number
  • An updated CV is ready
  • Clear communication preferences (email, app, or mobile notifications)

LocumCo+™: Your All-in-One Locum Job Tool

The LocumCo+™ App is designed with Pharmacists in mind.

  • Apply with Quick Apply
  • Manage your profile and CV
  • Get custom job alerts
  • Track and message recruiters directly
  • Access support through the Scout in-app assistant

Download from the App Store and take control of your schedule today.

Ready to Embrace Flexibility?

Locum work isn’t just about filling gaps; it’s a smarter, more fulfilling way to work. Whether you’re starting out, looking for variety, or searching for more balance, LocumCo is your partner at every stage.

Get in touch to explore the opportunities further. 

Frequently Asked Questions

What qualifications do I need to be a locum Pharmacist?

You must be a registered Pharmacist with an active AHPRA registration, hold an ABN, and have professional indemnity insurance in place. You should also keep your CV up to date.

Do I need to pay to use LocumCo’s services?

No. LocumCo’s services are completely free for Pharmacists. There are no sign-up or placement fees for candidates at any time.

Can I choose where and when I work?

Yes. One of the best parts of locum work is flexibility. You tell us your availability and preferences, and we connect you with shifts that match.

What support does LocumCo provide during placements?

We assist with compliance, shift scheduling, communication, and support before, during, and after your placement. Our team is available 24/7 for any urgent queries.