How much do doctors earn?
There’s little doubt that doctors are paid well in Australia. Some are paid very well, like those who have their own practice. Others, who work for practice owners, might earn less – but still more than the average worker. There are a broad range of surgeon and doctor salaries available, depending on a number of factors. But generally, a starting salary from around $100,000 up to $400,000 annually when you are more experienced is expected. So you maybe asking…
What is the average doctor salary in Australia?
The average yearly physician or doctor salary (working in a general practice) is a little over $101,000. This is closely behind a physician or doctor working in an emergency department in a hospital, who brings in about $102,000. The same titles in internal medicine see about $118,000, while a cardiologist takes home around $120,000.
What about experienced doctors?
Fairly experienced general practitioners can expect to earn between $200,000 and $300,000. However, with overtime this can expect to rise to about $400,000. Of course, this varies depending on a number of variables such as:
- Location, Urban or Rural
- Hours
- Private Practices or General Practices
- Experience and Qualification
- Employment Type (Own Practice/Contractor/Full Time Employee)
- The Kind of Work Undertaken (Medical Specialities)
Wage Averages for Senior Surgeons
Then there are average salaries earned by “senior” doctors and physicians whom are classed as surgeons with a specialised niche. For example, an “average” surgeon salary for a plastic surgeon might be around $150,000. however, a “senior” plastic surgeon would commonly earn well over $300,000. The difference for a neurosurgeon might be $100,000 to almost $600,000. Therefore, the average salary is sometimes hard to define due to a number of different thresholds. An “average” salary is nice in comparison to other industries. Although, it would be smart to strive towards “senior” roles, even with all the additional training and insurance.
Salaries for Hospital Employees
If you work in a public hospital you can expect the added benefit of salary packaging. Salary packaging is where the amount of taxable income you earn can be reduced by spending some of your pre-tax salary. This is only applicable on certain items, such as purchasing a car.
registrar’s at a public hospital might average up to $110,000 however when you throw in the benefit of salary packaging, this could rise to up to about $160,000.
There are, of course, other things to consider, such as how you charge (per hour or per procedure), specialist or generalist, diagnostics, or actual treatment, acute versus chronic…
What you can do now
Doctor and surgeon salaries in Australia can vary wildly and it’s invaluable to know what you’re getting into before you get here. Luckily, we specialise in employment for the medical industry and have a proven record of satisfied clients. Simply contact us if you would like any additional information or assistance. Additionally, You can view the current remuneration and conditions award documentation on the NSW Gov Health site. Here you can browse your workplace rights, if you are unsure about what you’re entitled to.
If you need assistance with finances, earnings, or simply finding employment in your chosen arena, then choose HealthStaff Recruitment. Our professional and skilled staff intimately know the Australian medical employment industry. Committed to working closely with you, We aid you to find a job that suits your lifestyle and provide the pay you deserve. To browse our job opportunities, please refer to our job vacancies list here.