FAQ - Frequently Asked Questions

Welcome to my frequently asked questions page. Some are questions that have been asked of me, and others are questions that after experience should have been asked or I should have clarified. The questions and answers are not meant to insult anyone's intelligence. I prefer things to be upfront and honest.

What do you mean by serviced accommodation?

Since I have started relieving there have been a few times when I have found myself in shoebox sized rooms and cockroach infested hovels. For me to invest my time in your business (usually a longer period up to a few months) I do need somewhere suitable to live. Serviced accommodation is more than a motel room. It must have a kitchen, bedroom and something comfortable to sit on. It must be clean. And bed linen, blankets and have washing and ironing facilities. It does not have to be in town. As I am generally available for longer term locums I prefer to wash clothes and cook for myself. For shorter term locums we can discuss different scenarios.

Phone Connection

As I travel continuously most of my mail, study and employment enquiries as well as my advertising, availability is all through the internet so I do require a telephone. I am happy to pay for all connection fees. If that cannot be done then I need access to a phone line for up to ten hours a week e.g. after hours work fax line. Again I am happy to pay for my calls.

How do I pay you?

I work as both a salaried pharmacist and a contractor depending on my tax situation. My hourly rate is $39.50. and 9% super ($3.56). The rate as a contrator is slightly higher to compensate for the higher tax I will pay on the super component. For short term locums (two weeks) a cheque at the end for my wages and super is suitable. For longer term positions I am paid within your normal wages system for your staff. I do ask that my superannuation is paid in a cheque to me monthly.

How do you calculate your travel costs?

My travel is calculated at 70 cents a kilometre. This is higher than the ATO rate but reflects more accurately the cost. I calculate off a map from where I am working by the shortest main road route to your town (a route and kilometres agreed between us). It is then paid as a travel allowance at the first normal pay period. For long distance (ie a few thousand kilometres) trips we may be able to negotiate. My actual travel costs looking at a years full maintenance is about twice what I charge.

Why do you require written confirmation of employment?

This is my business and I run it as a business. Terminating my contract as you find someone full time etc means I am out of pocket, often after having the position booked for some months. If you employ me through a locum agency you sign a contract. If you employ me directly then I ask you to write or e-mail me to confirm my dates of employment and the basic conditions set out on my website. If during my employment we extend my term then I do request a new e-mail to confirm it. I prefer e-mail and allow 48hrs after a verbal agreement for confirmation by e-mail before I put myself back on the market.

Can I employ you directly after using a locum agency to find you originally?

A lot of my work is by word of mouth. If you find me through a locum agency we abide by the contract you signed with them. This may mean that you pay them another fee if you re-employ me within a certain time period. I try to be fair to you, the locum agencies and run an honest business.