Nicola Speer is a medical recruitment specialist (and a Kiwi!) focusing on helping Radiologists find locum and permanent positions. Here Nicola answers some questions to help Kiwi Radiologists thinking of working in an Australian locum position.
“Where in NZ are you from?”
I’m from the Nelson region, right at the top of the South Island. It’s a location known for its sunny climate, beautiful beaches and good agriculture including its vineyards and great wines being produced.
“When did you move to Australia and why?”
I moved from the UK back to NZ briefly and then to Sydney to live. I’ve been here over 15 years now and love the lifestyle here – as well as the ease of being able to get back to New Zealand frequently to see family and friends. My initial reason for coming here was for work, then it quickly became home for me
“What’s your favourite place in Australia?”
It’s hard to say since there is so much to love about Australia – I live in Bondi Beach so that has to be my number 1 – I feel grateful everyday for being able to get out to the beach early in the mornings, winter and summer, and enjoy the village-like community here. Outside Sydney, Melbourne is my favourite for a weekend away, the culture, food and ease of moving around in the city make it a great place to spend some time. I’m keen to explore regional Victoria more too. Adelaide and Hobart are also favourite weekends away. In the middle of our already mild winter, it is nice to get away to Queensland for some sunshine, swimming in the ocean and exploring – Port Douglas and Cape Tribulation are beautiful.
“How can you help NZ based Radiologists?”
One of my favourite aspects of helping NZ radiologists into locums over here in Australia, is the connection I have with New Zealanders and a bit of understanding in terms of the questions that they would like to have answered, how best to set things up for locum work that is going to be a truly enjoyable experience for the doctor, and their family if they’re coming too – which is a great option, to take a trip that mixes work, with some family time in a great Australian location.
“What are the most common types of questions NZ Radiologists have about working in Australia?”
Sometimes NZ radiologists ask what is required for registration and paperwork and are generally quite relieved at how much Prescript can do to make it a smooth and simple process.
I think there’s often an initial feeling of not knowing what the options are, where to start, how much they can earn and the practicalities of the process. I love to tailor locums for NZ radiologists that cater to their time capacity and availability and also the personal preferences for locations. If I talk to a doctor who isn’t sure, then I like to go over a few ideas to see which places sound the most appealing to each individual.
“How much can a Radiologist earn for a locum position?”
It can vary on location and length of commitment, but generally it is a daily rate of $3000 to $4000 per day (+GST).
“Are there other benefits?”
Plenty! It’s a pretty stress-free experience with flights, well selected accommodation, a car and some other personal touches provided that show appreciation to radiologists and ensure a smooth process.
“Can a family come too?”
Yes, absolutely and this is something that I like to discuss with radiologists in our initial chats to ensure I understand and can think about good ideas to suit the preferences of the whole family: ages of children, what activities they like and interests the family have, any factors that require special planning and basics like the type of accommodation that will make the stay during their locum most comfortable.
“What is the best way for a doctor to contact you?”
There are three ways to get in touch:
Call me on 0405 429 799
Email nicola@prescript.com.au
Click ‘Book A Call with Nicola' ⬇️(with option to upload your CV)
The best way is to send me a brief overview of any existing ideas about coming to Australia for locums. If the radiologist just wants to find out what the options are and knows nothing about where to start – that’s perfect too! I’ll be able to reply and schedule in a phone call to suit us both so that we can have a chat about options, answer questions and look at how best to proceed from there.
New Zealand radiologists are perfectly placed to come over to Australia and work. We partner with really appreciative and accommodating radiology practices, hospitals and imaging services and look after our Kiwi doctors coming in to work, whether it’s for a week, a fortnight, a few weeks dotted through the year or even a block of months, get in touch and we can have that first conversation.
About Nicola Speer
Nicola recruits for locum and permanent positions across regional Australia with a focus on Radiology.
0405 429 799 // nicola@prescript.com.au
“Prescript are medical recruitment specialists.”
At Prescript we’re known for helping solve the regional doctor shortage in Australia.
Every day we’re focused on two clear outcomes - Helping hospitals find doctors that create departments and clinics that run better, have more capacity and less stress. And placing Doctors in jobs that leave them feeling highly valued, rewarded and, most importantly, enjoying what they do.
We believe that when we get these two crucial things right, it has a huge impact on the regional doctor shortage and the healthcare of communities across Australia.
There are three ways to contact us:
Call 1300 755 498
Email contact@prescript.com.au
Click 'Connect with Prescript' to ask a question online (with option to upload your CV)
We'd love to hear from you!
“We’re known for helping solve the regional doctor shortage, leaving doctors loving what they do and regional communities feeling like they have the best doctors in town.”