Locum GPs are the backbone of rural and remote healthcare, especially in regions like the Far West of New South Wales. To better understand the locum experience from a practice perspective, we sat down with Claire Allan, Medical Workforce Consultant at Maari Ma Health Aboriginal Corporation, who shared her reflections on what makes locum work in Broken Hill so rewarding, both for doctors and for the community they serve.
What emerged from our conversation was a picture of a welcoming clinic, a supportive multidisciplinary team, and a community that truly values the contribution of locum doctors.
A Welcoming Practice and a Balanced Workweek
One of the first things Claire highlighted was the strong sense of support within the clinic. Locum GPs work closely with other doctors, Registered Nurses, and Aboriginal Health Practitioners (AHP) who are always ready to help.
The work-life balance is another standout. Locums at Maari Ma enjoy Monday to Friday work only, no after-hours, no weekends, and no on-call. With the clinic located just minutes from the airport and accommodation, the whole experience is designed to be straightforward and stress-free.
Why Locums Are Essential to the Community
In a region where permanent recruitment can be challenging, locum GPs play a critical role in maintaining continuity of care. Claire explained that without locums, the practice simply couldn’t operate at the level the community deserves.
Locums work hand-in-hand with the nursing and AHP teams, managing acute presentations, supporting chronic disease care, and ensuring patients continue to receive high-quality, culturally-informed healthcare.
A Supportive Start: Orientation and Integration
To help locum GPs settle in quickly, the practice offers a structured orientation on the first day. Claire described a warm introduction to the team, clear explanations of referral processes, and access to video tutorials that walk doctors through essential systems.
This preparation, combined with the clinic’s collaborative culture, ensures locum doctors feel ready and confident from the moment they begin consulting.
How Patients Respond to Locum Doctors
While many patients appreciate seeing a familiar face, the community is very used to receiving care from locum GPs. Claire emphasised that with the strong support of RNs and AHPs, transitions between doctors are smooth, and patients continue to feel safe and well cared for.
A Truly Unique Outback Experience
When asked what makes the locum experience at Maari Ma memorable, Claire described something beyond the clinic walls. Broken Hill offers an authentic outback lifestyle, rugged beauty, rich history, and a vibrant arts and cultural scene.
There are plenty of cafés, restaurants, fitness clubs and sports teams, as well as stunning national parks and walking trails to explore on weekends. Many locums find that the region surprises them with its friendliness, community warmth, and unexpected lifestyle perks.
Life in Broken Hill: Professionally and Personally
Professionally, locum GPs join a team of four other doctors and a large multidisciplinary workforce of nurses, Aboriginal Health Practitioners, allied health staff, and visiting medical specialists. It’s a well-supported environment where collaboration is central to patient care.
Personally, the region offers a welcoming social scene with trivia nights, community events, and local sports clubs: soccer, netball, basketball and more, giving locums an easy way to make new friends and settle into the community.
What Makes a Great Locum GP?
According to Claire, the GPs who thrive in remote settings are adaptable, experienced, and comfortable working with Aboriginal patients or in regional and remote environments. Flexibility and a willingness to follow local processes and guidance help locums integrate quickly and deliver meaningful care.
Advice for First-Time Locums
Claire’s message to new locums is simple:
“Enjoy the experience and the team you are working with.”
The combination of professional support and community connection makes the transition easier than many expect.
Opportunities to Return, or Stay Longer
The clinic is always open to GPs who want to return for regular FIFO rotations or short blocks. For some, a locum placement becomes the first step toward a longer stay.
“One GP came for just two weeks and stayed for two years,” Claire shared, a testament to how rewarding rural practice can be.
Rural Locum Work and the Future of Outback Healthcare
With recruitment challenges increasing across rural Australia, Claire believes locum GPs will continue to play an essential role in sustaining healthcare services. The contribution of each visiting doctor, whether for two weeks or several months, makes a lasting difference.
“We’re grateful for every GP who has worked with us and continues to do so,” she said.
Considering a Locum Placement in Far West NSW?
Broken Hill offers a rare blend of professional fulfilment, lifestyle balance, cultural richness, and community warmth. Whether you’re looking for your first locum role, exploring FIFO rotations, or considering a longer-term move, working with Maari Ma provides a meaningful and memorable outback experience.
If you'd like help exploring locum opportunities in the region, you can view the locum jobs currently on offer here or contact DXC Medical’s Locum specialist:
Amy Sullivan
National Locum GP & Rural Generalist Division
0416 370 196
amy.sullivan@dxcmedical.com.au
We recently had the opportunity to catch up with Tarun Bh, Practice Manager at NSW Outback Division of General Practice Ltd to learn more about what makes locum GP work in Cobar such a rewarding and valued experience.
Each year, Dr Amal travels across the globe from the UK to undertake a locum placement in Australia, a journey not just of miles, but of purpose, passion, and professional curiosity. With an extensive medical background and a commitment to exploring diverse healthcare systems, Dr Amal brings not only his clinical skills but a reflective, human touch to every placement.
