For many doctors, locum work is a temporary solution.
For others, it becomes a powerful way to explore medicine, communities, and the country itself.
For Dr Shoaib, locum life evolved into an experience that shaped his approach to general practice in Australia.
From Pakistan to Australian General Practice
Dr Shoaib graduated from medical school in Pakistan in 2012. After relocating to Australia, he completed his general practice training in regional New South Wales by 2021, a journey that came with its fair share of transitions, learning curves, and new systems to navigate.
Interestingly, his first GP role in Australia came through DXC Medical, marking the beginning of a professional relationship that would later support his locum career as well.
Why General Practice?
“General practice has it all,” Dr Shoaib says.
For him, GP work offers the full spectrum of medicine, patient care, independence, continuity, decision-making, follow-ups, teamwork, clinical medicine, and even procedural work. But above all, it’s communication that stands out.
“This is where communication matters the most, and I feel very comfortable in that aspect.”
How Locum Work Entered the Picture
Locum work wasn’t initially part of the plan, it was a practical necessity at the time. But once he began, Dr Shoaib quickly saw its value.
Locum work gave him the opportunity to:
“It’s a good way to try out different practices and their services, and to experience different work environments.”
First Locum Placement: South-West Sydney
Dr Shoaib’s first locum role was a six-month placement in South-West Sydney. Since then, he has worked primarily across the Sydney region, with more recent placements taking him into rural Western Australia.
Each placement brought something different, from fast-paced metro clinics to smaller rural communities where medicine looks very different day to day.
Adapting to New Clinics and Communities
Working as a locum means adapting quickly, and for Dr Shoaib, that adaptability has become one of his greatest strengths.
“Not all clinics work the same way,” he explains, “but learning how to settle into new systems and workflows efficiently has been an important part of my professional growth.”
With experience across four different countries, Dr Shoaib has developed a strong ability to integrate into new teams, understand diverse patient populations, and deliver consistent, high-quality care from day one.
While locum work often involves moving between communities, he sees this as a reminder of what matters most in general practice.
“Building rapport with patients comes naturally,” he says, “and even short-term connections can be meaningful and rewarding.”
The Communities He’s Served
As a locum GP, Dr Shoaib has had the opportunity to work across a diverse range of communities, from young and multicultural populations to farming and rural regions, as well as caring for older patients, including those in nursing homes.
This breadth of experience has strengthened his clinical versatility and reinforced the value of collaborative care. Dr Shoaib particularly enjoys working in practices where doctors can support one another, share insights, and deliver patient care as a team.
“Having other doctors around creates a great clinical environment,” he says, “where collaboration and shared experience enhance both patient outcomes and professional satisfaction.”
The Rewards of Locum Life
Ask Dr Shoaib what he finds most rewarding about locum work, and his answer is simple:
“Australia is huge, it’s one good way to explore the country.”
From long open roads to unexpected wildlife encounters, locum life has offered experiences well beyond the clinic walls.
“Kangaroos, birds, sheep, snakes, you name it! Everything is on the road. It’s enjoyable, but you do need to be careful.”
Is the Locum Pathway Worth It?
Dr Shoaib is quick to encourage doctors who are curious about locum work.
“If you’re trying to find the best fit for you, then yes.”
His advice for those starting out? Keep it short at first.
“Try it, maybe start with a short commitment, up to four weeks.”
Dr Shoaib believes both pathways, perm vs locum, have their place.
Locum work is ideal if:
Locum work is invaluable for learning and exploration.
Any Regrets?
When asked what he wishes he’d known before starting locum work, Dr Shoaib doesn’t hesitate.
“DXC already made the process smooth, so no regrets.”
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Contact DXC Medical's Locum Specialist:
Amy Sullivan
+61 416 370 196
amy.sullivan@dxcmedical.com.au
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