Locum doctor rates, January to March 2026

During the January to March quarter, overall locum demand for consultants increased notably compared to the final quarter of 2025, while registrar and resident demand softened slightly. This early-year uplift was broad-based and stronger than the same period in 2025, signalling a solid start following the typical holiday slowdown. Intensive Care, Emergency Medicine and Psychiatry all recorded strong consultant demand, while Medicine remained steady with more modest growth.

Demand was particularly evident across regional and remote locations, where flexibility continues to appeal to doctors seeking variety.

Pay rates for consultants eased slightly overall but remained elevated by historical standards. Anaesthetics continued to command some of the highest rates, averaging $3,154 per day. Other procedural specialties, including Obstetrics & Gynaecology and Surgery, also maintained competitive pricing. Registrar roles saw a meaningful lift in average pay across several specialties, creating attractive mid-level opportunities, while resident rates remained largely stable.

Looking ahead, demand is expected to remain resilient through 2026 as workforce pressures persist. Doctors who maintain up-to-date credentials and remain flexible on location and specialty will be best positioned to secure preferred roles. At Zeep, we continue to invest in streamlined credentialing tools, helping reduce admin so you can focus on patient care.

The data is compiled from information sent to Zeep by hospitals and is indicative only. All daily rates are an average of 8 hours worked. Zeep Medical makes no warranty, representation or statement, express or implied, about the accuracy, availability, completeness or usefulness of the information, and accepts no legal liability or responsibility for any loss or damage arising from its supply or use.