Australia’s radiology workforce is under sustained pressure, with demand continuing to outstrip supply across both public hospitals and private practices. As a result, radiologists at every career stage now face more choice—and more leverage—than ever before.
But the right choice looks very different depending on whether you’re a registrar approaching fellowship, a new fellow, or a senior consultant.
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For Registrars: Planning Ahead Without Locking Yourself In
For registrars nearing the end of training, the focus is often on passing exams, consolidating skills, and understanding what the post-fellowship market actually looks like.
What the Australian market offers registrars:
Strong demand across general and subspecialty imaging
Increasing willingness from employers to discuss flexible or phased starts
Early conversations about post-fellowship locum or permanent pathways
While most registrars won’t locum independently until after fellowship, early planning matters. Understanding locum rates, permanent salary expectations, and regional demand allows you to make informed decisions well before exams are finished.
Key takeaway for registrars:
You don’t need to commit yet—but engaging early gives you clarity, leverage, and options when the time comes.
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For New Fellows: Locum as a Strategic First Move
For many Australian radiologists, the period immediately after fellowship is when locum work makes the most sense.
Why new fellows often choose locum work:
Daily rates typically ranging from $3,000–$4,500+
Exposure to a wide variety of case mixes and modalities
Opportunity to trial metro vs regional practice
Time and space to recover after exams while earning strongly
Locuming allows new fellows to build confidence, speed, and adaptability across different reporting environments—skills that translate directly into long-term career success.
Some fellows locum for 3–6 months, others for several years. Many eventually transition into permanent roles with a much clearer understanding of what they want—and what they won’t accept.
Key takeaway for fellows:
Locum work can be a powerful, low-risk way to explore your options while maximising income and flexibility early in your career.
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For Senior Consultants: Flexibility, Leverage, and Lifestyle
For senior radiologists, the decision between locum and permanent roles is often driven by lifestyle, workload sustainability, and autonomy rather than training or progression.
Current trends among senior consultants in Australia:
Increased interest in locum or hybrid models to reduce burnout
Strong demand for experienced radiologists in regional and outer-metro settings
Locum daily rates commonly $3,500–$5,000, particularly for hard-to-fill sites
Some senior consultants use locum work to:
Step back from management or on-call
Supplement part-time permanent roles
Transition toward semi-retirement without leaving clinical work
Others leverage locum offers to negotiate better conditions in permanent positions.
Key takeaway for senior consultants:
Locum work isn’t a step back—it’s often a strategic move toward longevity, balance, and control.
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Career Progression Looks Different at Every Stage
Registrars benefit from market insight and early planning
Fellows gain breadth, confidence, and earning power through locum work
Senior consultants use flexibility to protect wellbeing and regain autonomy
In today’s Australian market, moving between locum and permanent roles is normal—and increasingly expected.
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Final Thoughts
There’s no single “right” career path in radiology—only the one that fits your current priorities. The most successful radiologists reassess their options at each stage and use both locum and permanent roles strategically over time.
If you’re a registrar, fellow, or senior consultant considering your next move, a confidential market discussion can help you understand what’s realistically available—right now—in Australia.
At Charterhouse Medical, we specialise exclusively in radiology recruitment and work with a large range of public and private imaging providers nationwide.
We offer:
Honest insight into current locum rates and permanent salaries
Opportunities across metro, regional, and rural Australia
Career advice tailored to your stage, subspecialty, and lifestyle goals
Get in touch for a no-obligation conversation and take control of your next career move—on your terms.
Jason Ahmad
Senior Recruitment Consultant - Radiology
T: 0413 742 703
F: (02) 9641 2499
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