NAHRLS Guidelines

Guidelines for Requests for Locum Support

Applications from organisations or individuals seeking locum support will be received and considered by the NAHRLS on a regular basis. Short notice applications will be considered.

Locum support will be provided to allow nurses, midwives and allied health professionals in rural areas to take leave.

Applications for locum support must be supported by a person from the relevant setting with authority to approve a locum placement.

Selection criteria is aligned with the aims and objectives of the NAHRLS and includes:

• Eligible professional discipline;
• Geographical isolation
• Professional isolation;
• Need to access leave;
• Benefit to the participant and/or the local community;
• Frequency of previous locum support and feedback concerning previous placements; and
• Other demonstrated need for locum support.

If an applicant forfeits or declines an offer of a locum place, that locum will be offered to the next suitable eligible applicant.

Applicants requesting locum services will be advised of the outcome of their application as soon as possible.

Applicants requiring locum support will be responsible for:

• Completing the Request for Locum Support application form that outlines the dates required for locum support, detailed practice profile, skills required and a description of the professional and personal facilities available to the locum, including appropriate accommodation and transport options;
• Gaining support by a person from the relevant setting with the authority to approve a locum placement;
• Assessing the suitability of the locum that has been assigned for the placement prior to signing the job order;
• Arranging a comprehensive handover before and after the placement, including clinical and professional issues to ensure continuity of care for patients and orientation to the practice;
• Paying the salary for the locum; and
• Completing a feedback form following the placement.

Guidelines for Locums wanting to work for NAHRLS

 To be eligible to work as a locum under NAHRLS and receive the additional allowances associated with the scheme, nurses, midwives and allied health professionals need to:

• Be legally entitled to work in Australia.

• Have current unrestricted professional registration in their field of practice.