Our GP Locum Program is not just a support mechanism, it is essential. In 2024–2025, the program delivered more than 3,000 days of locum coverage, the equivalent of placing 14 additional full-time GPs into rural communities. That support has proven vital in maintaining access to healthcare, especially during periods of workforce shortage or peak demand.
“The Rural Health West locum service is crucial to our health service. It allows us to maintain high-standard GP services when relief periods are required,” said Kate Willett, Clinic Manager at Mawarnkarra Health Service.
Whether filling a short-term gap or supporting ongoing service delivery, the locum program helps clinics continue to provide safe, reliable care. For many Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Services, the ability to access regular locum GPs has also supported continuity of care and cultural safety for Aboriginal patients.
“The locum service has been a lifeline for our clinic during periods of peak demand. Returning placements have had a positive impact on continuity of care, particularly for our Aboriginal patients.
“The Rural Health West team is consistently reliable and responsive, always acting promptly to meet our staffing needs. Their support has made a real difference to the stability and quality of care we’re able to offer our community,” said locum turned permanent GP Dr Pieter Oosthuizen from Wirraka Maya Health Service.