Are you earning what you deserve?
In the dynamic world of pharmacy, locum positions offer flexibility and diverse experiences. However, many Pharmacists wonder if they’re truly capitalising on these opportunities.
With the evolving landscape in 2025, it’s crucial to understand how to maximise earnings effectively.
Understanding the Locum Landscape in 2025
A locum Pharmacist temporarily fills pharmacy positions, offering services during staff shortages, holidays, or peak periods.
This role provides flexibility and exposure to various work environments.
Current Demand and Opportunities
The demand for locum Pharmacists remains strong in 2025, especially in regional and rural areas. With healthcare needs expanding, opportunities abound for those willing to adapt and travel.
Are you looking for more locum opportunities? Check out this comprehensive guide.
Essential Skills to Enhance Your Value
Employers value Pharmacists who can adapt to various roles.
Consider gaining experience in:
- Vaccination services: With increasing demand, being certified can set you apart.
- Hospital pharmacy: Experience in hospital settings can open doors to higher-paying positions.
- Mental health first aid: Training in this area is increasingly sought after.
Key Factors That Impact Your Locum Rates
Several factors influence how much you can earn:
- Urgency of the shift (last-minute roles may pay higher)
- Location (rural towns often pay more than metro areas)
- Weekend and public holiday work
- Specialist experience, like hospital pharmacy or immunisation services
- Availability and flexibility, being responsive to calls and emails
Essential Skills That Help You Earn More
Pharmacists who diversify their skills tend to earn more and find better opportunities. In 2025, here’s what will set you apart:
1. Immunisation Accreditation
Being certified to administer vaccines is now considered essential in many community settings, especially during flu season or for COVID-19 boosters.
2. Aged Care and Residential Facility Experience
With increased focus on community healthcare and medicine reviews in aged care, familiarity with these settings is a major bonus.
3. Mental Health First Aid
Pharmacists play an important role in early intervention. MHFA training is a valuable asset when applying for locum roles.
Financial Tips for Locum Pharmacists
As a Pharmacist, you need to manage your income strategically.
Budgeting for Off-Peak Periods
Income can be seasonal. Plan for slower periods (e.g. post-Christmas) by saving a portion of your income during high-demand months like May to August (flu season).
Tax Deductions
Keep receipts for:
- CPD courses
- Travel and accommodation
- Uniforms
- Professional indemnity insurance
- Software subscriptions
To gain a better understanding of tax deduction, give this read a go.
Making the Most of Technology
The LocumCo Mobile App is essential if you want to remain competitive in 2025.
With the app, you can:
- Receive shift alerts instantly
- Set availability
- Confirm roles with one click
- Keep your profile current
- Receive email and mobile updates
Keep your notifications turned on and close unrelated apps during work hours to stay alert to new shifts.
CPD and Career Growth
All Pharmacists, including locums, must complete at least 40 CPD credits annually, including at least one reflective activity. As a locum, it’s your responsibility to:
- Track your CPD with a digital or printed log
- Complete courses online when off shift
- Reflect on practical experiences (e.g., patient counselling, medication reviews)
- Keep certificates and documents in cloud storage for audits
Attending workshops or webinars during quieter months is a great way to stay compliant and competitive.
The LocumCo Process for Pharmacists
Working with LocumCo is simple and effective:
Step 1: Contact LocumCo
Submit your availability, location preferences, and skill set.
Step 2: We’ll Reach Out
You’ll be contacted via phone or email with suitable shifts.
Step 3: Review and Accept
We’ll send candidate options to employers, and once approved, you’ll start work.
We offer roles you wouldn’t get through self-sourcing, and we support you every step of the way.
Pro Tips to Maximise Locum Income
- Accept short-notice shifts for higher rates
- Take on public holiday work if possible
- Be open to regional placements
- Upskill in high-demand areas
- Maintain an active profile and resume
Final Thoughts
To sum up, maximising your earnings as a locum Pharmacist in 2025 involves strategic planning, continuous learning, and leveraging available resources.
By focusing on high-demand regions, enhancing your skill set, and partnering with trusted agencies like LocumCo, you can achieve both financial and professional growth.
Ready to elevate your locum career? Explore opportunities with LocumCo.
FAQs
What qualifications do I need to be a locum Pharmacist?
You must be a registered Pharmacist with AHPRA registration.
How do I find a locum Pharmacist?
Employers can register here with LocumCo. We’ll contact you, source candidates, and share resumes for approval.
Can I be a locum without prior experience?
Yes! As long as you’re registered and confident in handling dispensary systems and patient care, you’re good to go.
What makes LocumCo different?
We’re a Pharmacist-owned, experienced, and Australia’s most trusted recruitment agency with a genuine care for Pharmacists’ growth and safety.
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