When you step into locum work, one of the first questions you might have is: how do I actually get paid?
The answer depends on where you work and your business setup. Different hospitals and health services have different systems. That’s why Prescript doesn’t just find you the role - we guide you through the entire payment process, so you can focus on delivering care rather than chasing paperwork.
Four Main Ways Locum Doctors Are Paid
1. Paid Directly by the Health Service – Payroll
This is the most common setup in public hospitals. You’re treated like a temporary employee:
You submit timesheets (usually weekly) for approval.
Tax and superannuation are deducted automatically.
Pay is usually weekly or fortnightly.
2. Paid Directly by the Health Service – Invoice
Some placements prefer doctors to invoice them directly:
You may need a registered business structure (like a Pty Ltd company or trust).
Many services require proof of insurance (e.g., Public Liability, Professional Indemnity, Workers’ Compensation or income protection).
You’re responsible for your own tax and super.
3. Paid via Prescript’s Payroll Provider
We partner with experienced medical payroll providers who:
Handle tax and super.
Provide essential insurance coverage.
Offer salary packaging options in some cases.
You still submit timesheets, but we manage everything with the payroll provider for you.
4. Paid via Prescript – Invoice
Some doctors with an eligible business structure (Pty Ltd or trust) invoice Prescript directly:
Payment terms and rates are confirmed upfront.
You’re responsible for your own tax and super.
Insurances in your business name are required.
We provide invoice templates and confirm the weekly process so everything runs smoothly.
Quick Q&A: What Doctors Ask Most
Do I need my own company or can I invoice as a sole trader?
It depends on the health service. Many prefer companies or trusts, but some will accept sole traders. We’ll confirm this before you start and help you understand your options.
What about insurance?
If you’re invoicing directly (to a hospital or Prescript), you’ll usually need to show evidence of Public Liability and Professional Indemnity insurance. If you’re paid via payroll or our payroll partner, these are typically included.
How often will I be paid?
Payroll: usually weekly or fortnightly.
Invoice: depends on the health service’s terms (often 14–30 days).
Prescript/Payroll provider: weekly or fortnightly, depending on agreement.
We confirm timelines before you start, so there are no surprises.
What paperwork do I need?
We keep it simple. You’ll usually need:
A timesheet signed by the health service.
Your invoice (if applicable).
Any required insurance documentation (if invoicing).
Our finance team provides templates, checklists, and reminders so nothing is missed.
Why Prescript Makes Payment Easy
We confirm the payment method up front so you know exactly how and when you’ll be paid.
Our finance team explains all paperwork and supports you through setup.
Your recruitment partner checks in to make sure your payments flow smoothly.
We supply templates and guidance so you’re never guessing.
Your Next Step
You don’t need to master every locum payment scenario. That’s our job. Whether you’re new to locuming or just want an expert team to handle the details, talk to us. We’ll walk you through everything and get you “locum ready” fast.
