Rostering ensures that hospitals can provide safe, round-the-clock care while helping doctors manage their personal and professional lives. As an intern, you are stepping into a healthcare system that operates 24/7, meaning you are likely to work weekends, nights, and some overtime.
Key points:
Interns are generally not rostered on-call, but this may vary based on location.
Rosters are critical for balancing your workload and maintaining safe working conditions.
Your rostering rights
Receiving your roster
Hospitals must provide your roster at least 28 days in advance.
If you do not receive it on time, contact Medical Workforce first. If unresolved, contact AMA Victoria for support.
Roster changes
Once issued, the roster should only change in specific circumstances:
Where you have received more than 14 days’ notice of the change.
A genuine medical emergency (e.g. natural disaster, large-scale accident).
Less than 14 days by Mutual agreement between you and the hospital (you will receive a daily allowance in this case).
Shift swaps and day off requests
If you need a day off or shift change:
Submit your request in writing to Medical Workforce.
Requests should ideally be made 28 days in advance to avoid disruptions. Save late requests for urgent needs.
Shift swaps are allowed but require written approval from Medical Workforce.
Main roster considerations
Hospital-initiated changes
If the hospital changes your roster with less than 14 days' notice, you are entitled to penalty payments directly added to your fortnightly pay.
Minimum breaks and time off
At least 3.5 days off per fortnight, with 2 consecutive days.
Minimum 10-hour break between shifts.
Roster design standards
Rosters should align with the AMA National Code of Practice for Hours of Work, Shift Work, and Rostering for Hospital Doctors (available on the AMA Federal website).
Rosters must be accessible via email, intranet, or other hospital-advised platforms.
Individual circumstances
Any changes to your roster must consider personal circumstances such as family obligations.
Key actions for interns
Be proactive: Regularly check where rosters are posted (e.g., email, intranet).
Keep written records: Save copies of your roster and any correspondence regarding changes.
Know your entitlements: Familiarise yourself with penalty payments and roster design guidelines.
Seek help if needed: For unresolved issues, contact AMA Victoria for support.
By understanding and advocating for your rostering rights, you can navigate your internship with confidence and clarity.