Are you feeling torn between flexibility and stability?
If you’re trying to make sense of the locum vs permanent decision, you’re not alone. Whether you’re a new graduate or a seasoned Pharmacist, the choice between contract flexibility and career stability can shape your professional life in big ways.
So how do you choose the right path?
With expert pharmacy job search tips and real support from LocumCo, we’ll help you understand the benefits, challenges, and career potential in both directions, so you can make a decision that aligns with your lifestyle, career goals, and current situation.
What is Locum Pharmacy Work?
Locum work is temporary and contract-based, allowing Pharmacists to fill short-term roles in community or hospital pharmacies. At LocumCo, we match locums with high-quality shifts and contracts across Australia.
Benefits of Locum Roles
- Freedom and flexibility to work when and where you want
- Higher pay rates in many regions, including rural or urgent placements
- Diverse experience across different pharmacy settings
- No long-term commitment, great for travel or early career exploration
- Perfect for filling gaps between permanent roles
Things to Consider
- You’ll need to be organised with your availability and schedule
- Some weeks may have fewer shifts if you don’t plan ahead
- As a locum, you must hold valid AHPRA registration and, in many cases, an ABN
What About Permanent Pharmacy Roles?
Permanent roles offer stability, structure, and often better long-term progression. LocumCo helps Pharmacists secure permanent roles across retail, hospital, and specialty settings.
Benefits of Permanent Roles
- Job security and consistent hours
- Opportunities for professional development and promotion
- Becoming part of a team, with mentorship and leadership options
- May include benefits like annual leave, sick leave, and superannuation
- Ideal if you’re looking to build roots in one location
View available Permanent roles here
Things to Consider
- Less flexibility in scheduling and time off
- Typically involves longer notice periods and employment contracts
- May take longer to find the right cultural and role fit
How to Decide: Pharmacy Job Search Tips from LocumCo
Here are our top tips to help you choose between locum vs permanent roles:
1. Reflect on Your Career Stage
- Early Career? Locum work is fantastic for gaining diverse experience
- Mid Career? A permanent role may offer the stability you’re now seeking
- Returning to Work or Travelling? Locum flexibility makes a perfect re-entry
2. Know Your Strengths
- Are you adaptable and quick to learn new systems? Locuming may suit you
- Prefer consistency and collaboration? A permanent team may be your fit
3. Test Both Waters
Plenty of Pharmacists combine both, starting with locum shifts during breaks before committing to permanent roles.
4. Stay Ready and Visible
Use LocumCo’s job alerts, LocumCo app, and Reverse Job Board to remain top of mind with employers. Always keep your CV updated and communicate availability clearly.
5. Connect with a Trusted Partner
We’ve supported over 21,000 Pharmacists across 39 years with one goal: matching the right people to the right roles.
Your Career, Your Way, With LocumCo
Whether you’re leaning towards the flexibility of locuming or the long-term benefits of a permanent job, LocumCo makes the journey easier.
We offer:
- 24/7 support from pharmacist-led recruiters
- Job matching via app, email and direct recruiter chat
- Custom alerts and Quick Apply
- Opportunities across all Australian states and territories
- Both Locum and Permanent Pharmacy job pathways
Choose the Role That Works for You
Don’t feel pressured to choose one path forever. Many Pharmacists move between locum and permanent positions as their goals change.
Let LocumCo help you discover what’s right, now and in the future.
Explore Locum and Permanent Jobs. Prefer to chat with a recruiter? Reach out via the LocumCo app or email. Ready to take control of your Pharmacy career? Let’s go.
Frequently Asked Questions
What qualifications do I need to be a locum Pharmacist?
You must be a registered Pharmacist with a valid AHPRA registration and a practising certificate. An ABN is often required for locum work.
Can I work both locum and permanent jobs?
Yes, many Pharmacists do a mix, taking locum shifts between permanent roles or during breaks. LocumCo can support both.
How do I find a locum Pharmacist?
Contact LocumCo with your shift requirements. We’ll send CVs and options for your approval, then connect you with the right locum.
Is it harder to find permanent roles than locum ones?
Not with the right support. LocumCo offers a wide range of permanent jobs across metro and rural areas, tailored to your preferences.
Which path is better for new graduates?
Locum work offers fast, broad experience. But if you’re ready for structure and mentorship, a permanent role may be the ideal start.