
A comprehensive breakdown of doctor salaries across all specialties, experience levels, and states in Australia
Did you know that the average Australian doctor earns significantly more than most other professionals, with some specialists pulling in over $500,000 annually? If you're considering a medical career or simply curious about physician compensation in Australia Down Under, you're in the right place!
Understanding doctor salaries in Australia isn't straightforward. The earning potential varies dramatically based on specialization, experience level, location, and whether you work in the public or private sector.
We have compiled this comprehensive guide to break down exactly what doctors earn across different medical fields in 2025.
Whether you're a medical student planning your career path, an international doctor considering relocation, or someone researching healthcare jobs in Australia, this guide covers everything you need to know about medical compensation . Let's dive into the numbers and discover what really determines a doctor's paycheck!
The medical profession in Australia remains one of the highest-paying career paths in 2025. According to the latest data, the average doctor in Australia earns between $150,000 to $400,000annually, depending on their specialty and experience level. But that's just scratching the surface!
When we break down the numbers, we see significant variation. Junior doctors and interns start at around $70,000-$90,000, while established specialists can command salaries exceeding $500,000. The median salary across all medical professionals sits at approximately $200,000, which is nearly three times the Australian median wage.
| Career Stage | Average Annual Salary | Salary Range |
|---|---|---|
| Intern (PGY1) | $75,000 | $70,000 - $85,000 |
| Resident (PGY2-3) | $85,000 | $80,000 - $95,000 |
| Registrar | $110,000 | $95,000 - $140,000 |
| General Practitioner | $200,000 | $120,000 - $350,000 |
| Medical Specialist | $300,000 | $200,000 - $600,000+ |
Key Insights:
Compared to other Australian professions, doctors consistently rank in the top 5% of earners. Legal professionals and senior executives may match specialist earnings, but the job security and career progression in medicine remain unparalleled. If you're exploring medical career opportunities, understanding these baseline figures is crucial for your planning.
General Practitioners form the backbone of Australia's healthcare system, and their compensation reflects both their essential role and the diversity of practice models available. In 2025, the average GP earns approximately $200,000 annually, but this figure masks significant variation based on several factors.
The GP salary structure in Australia is unique compared to many other countries. Most GPs work on a billing model rather than a fixed salary, which means their income is directly tied to patient volume and the services they provide. This creates both opportunities and challenges for income optimization.
💡 Important Note: GP income varies dramatically based on practice ownership, billing methods, and location. A practice owner in a thriving suburban area can earn 2-3 times more than a salaried GP in the same region.
| Practice Model | Typical Arrangement | Average Annual Income |
|---|---|---|
| Bulk Billing GP (Employee) | Fixed salary or low commission | $120,000 - $180,000 |
| Mixed Billing GP (Employee) | 40-50% of billings | $180,000 - $250,000 |
| Private Billing GP (Employee) | 50-65% of billings | $220,000 - $320,000 |
| Practice Owner/Partner | Profit share after expenses | $250,000 - $450,000+ |
| Rural/Remote GP | Enhanced incentives + billings | $280,000 - $500,000+ |
| Locum GP | Hourly/daily rates | $150,000 - $350,000 |
Most employed GPs work on commission-based arrangements, where they receive a percentage of their billings. Here's what you need to know:
Location dramatically impacts GP earnings. Rural and remote GPs can earn significantly more due to government incentives, lower competition, and higher patient demand. Here's the breakdown:
| Location Type | Average Income | Additional Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| Major Metropolitan | $180,000 - $280,000 | Access to professional networks, training |
| Regional Cities | $220,000 - $320,000 | Lower cost of living, steady patient base |
| Rural/Remote (MM 3-7) | $280,000 - $500,000+ | Relocation assistance, housing, tax benefits |
After-hours and Weekend Premiums: GPs who provide after-hours services or weekend consultations can significantly boost their income. Weekend rates are typically 1.5-2x standard consultation fees, and after-hours premiums can add $30,000-$80,000 to annual earnings. Many GPs supplement their income through telehealth consultations, which have become increasingly popular and lucrative since 2020.
For international doctors considering healthcare opportunities in Australia, general practice offers an excellent pathway with strong earning potential and diverse practice options.
Specialist physicians in Australia command some of the highest salaries in the medical profession. After completing years of additional training and obtaining fellowship qualifications, specialists can expect substantial financial rewards. However, earnings vary significantly across different specialties!
The highest-earning specialists typically work in procedure-heavy fields or those requiring extensive technical expertise. Let's break down the earnings by specialty category.
| Specialty | Average Annual Salary | Salary Range | Training Years |
|---|---|---|---|
| Neurosurgeon | $550,000 | $400,000 - $800,000+ | 12-14 years |
| Orthopaedic Surgeon | $520,000 | $380,000 - $750,000 | 11-13 years |
| Cardiothoracic Surgeon | $500,000 | $380,000 - $720,000 | 12-15 years |
| Plastic/Cosmetic Surgeon | $480,000 | $350,000 - $900,000+ | 11-13 years |
| Anaesthetist | $450,000 | $350,000 - $600,000 | 8-10 years |
| Radiologist | $420,000 | $320,000 - $580,000 | 8-10 years |
| Ophthalmologist | $400,000 | $280,000 - $650,000 | 9-11 years |
| Specialty | Average Annual Salary | Salary Range | Training Years |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cardiologist | $380,000 | $280,000 - $520,000 | 9-11 years |
| Gastroenterologist | $360,000 | $270,000 - $480,000 | 8-10 years |
| Dermatologist | $350,000 | $260,000 - $550,000 | 8-10 years |
| Urologist | $340,000 | $260,000 - $480,000 | 9-11 years |
| Emergency Physician | $320,000 | $240,000 - $450,000 | 7-9 years |
| Oncologist | $310,000 | $240,000 - $420,000 | 9-11 years |
| Endocrinologist | $290,000 | $220,000 - $400,000 | 8-10 years |
| Psychiatrist | $280,000 | $200,000 - $420,000 | 8-10 years |
| Paediatrician | $270,000 | $200,000 - $380,000 | 8-10 years |
| Rheumatologist | $260,000 | $200,000 - $360,000 | 8-10 years |
⚠️ Important Consideration: These figures represent gross income before expenses. Specialists in private practice must deduct professional indemnity insurance ($20,000-$150,000 annually), practice expenses, and staff costs. Net income is typically 60-75% of gross billings.
For medical professionals exploring specialist positions, it's crucial to consider both the financial rewards and the extensive training investment required. Most specialists don't reach full earning potential until their late 30s or early 40s after completing fellowship training.
Junior doctors form the foundation of Australia's hospital workforce, working long hours while gaining essential clinical experience. While starting salaries are modest compared to established doctors, they still compare favourably with most other graduate professions in Australia.
The salary structure for junior doctors is standardized through award agreements, which means there's less variation than seen in GP or specialist roles. However, overtime, penalty rates, and location bonuses can significantly boost take-home pay!
| Career Level | Years Post-Graduation | Base Salary | With Overtime/Penalties |
|---|---|---|---|
| Intern (PGY1) | 1st year | $72,000 - $78,000 | $85,000 - $95,000 |
| RMO Year 2 (PGY2) | 2nd year | $80,000 - $86,000 | $95,000 - $105,000 |
| RMO Year 3 (PGY3) | 3rd year | $88,000 - $94,000 | $105,000 - $115,000 |
| Registrar Year 1 | 4th-5th year | $96,000 - $108,000 | $115,000 - $130,000 |
| Registrar Year 3-4 | 6th-8th year | $110,000 - $125,000 | $130,000 - $150,000 |
| Senior Registrar | 8th+ year | $125,000 - $145,000 | $150,000 - $175,000 |
Junior doctors often work well beyond their standard 38-hour week. Overtime and penalty rates can add 20-40% to base salary:
| State/Territory | Intern Base Salary | PGY3 Base Salary | Registrar Base Salary |
|---|---|---|---|
| New South Wales | $76,500 | $92,800 | $108,000 - $128,000 |
| Victoria | $75,200 | $91,400 | $106,000 - $125,000 |
| Queensland | $77,800 | $94,200 | $110,000 - $130,000 |
| Western Australia | $78,900 | $95,600 | $112,000 - $135,000 |
| South Australia | $74,800 | $90,200 | $105,000 - $123,000 |
| Tasmania | $75,500 | $91,800 | $107,000 - $126,000 |
| Northern Territory | $82,500 | $98,900 | $118,000 - $142,000 |
| ACT | $76,200 | $92,400 | $108,000 - $127,000 |
💰 Maximizing Junior Doctor Income:
Training Program Stipends and Allowances: Many specialty training programs provide additional allowances beyond base salary. These can include study leave allowances ($2,000-$5,000 annually), exam fees coverage, conference attendance funding, and relocation assistance for rural rotations.
While junior doctor salaries might seem modest compared to established specialists, they represent a solid starting point for a medical career. Most junior doctors see their income double or triple within 5-7 years as they progress through training programs and into specialist or GP roles. If you're looking for junior doctor positions in Australia, understanding these salary structures is essential for career planning.
Surgeons represent the highest-earning medical professionals in Australia, reflecting their extensive training (often 12-15 years post-graduation), high-pressure work environment, and the technical expertise required. However, there's substantial variation in earnings across different surgical specialties and practice models.
The pathway to becoming a surgeon is long and demanding, but the financial rewards are significant. Let's break down exactly what surgeons earn across different specialties and settings in 2025!
| Surgical Specialty | Average Annual Income | Private Practice Range | Public Hospital Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| Neurosurgery | $550,000 | $450,000 - $800,000+ | $280,000 - $420,000 |
| Cardiothoracic Surgery | $500,000 | $420,000 - $720,000 | $270,000 - $400,000 |
| Orthopaedic Surgery | $520,000 | $400,000 - $750,000 | $260,000 - $380,000 |
| Plastic & Reconstructive | $480,000 | $380,000 - $900,000+ | $250,000 - $360,000 |
| Vascular Surgery | $420,000 | $350,000 - $620,000 | $240,000 - $350,000 |
| ENT (Otolaryngology) | $400,000 | $320,000 - $580,000 | $230,000 - $340,000 |
| General Surgery | $380,000 | $300,000 - $550,000 | $220,000 - $320,000 |
| Colorectal Surgery | $370,000 | $290,000 - $520,000 | $220,000 - $310,000 |
| Urology | $360,000 | $280,000 - $500,000 | $215,000 - $300,000 |
| Obstetrics & Gynaecology | $350,000 | $270,000 - $520,000 | $210,000 - $290,000 |
| Paediatric Surgery | $340,000 | $260,000 - $480,000 | $220,000 - $310,000 |
Surgeon compensation is complex and varies significantly based on practice model. Here's how it works:
⚠️ Surgeon Practice Expenses:
Before celebrating those six-figure salaries, remember that private practice surgeons face significant expenses:
A surgeon's income is directly tied to the number and complexity of procedures they perform. Here's a realistic breakdown:
| Activity Level | Procedures/Month | Consultations/Week | Estimated Annual Income |
|---|---|---|---|
| Part-Time Practice | 8-12 major procedures | 15-25 patients | $220,000 - $320,000 |
| Standard Practice | 15-25 major procedures | 30-45 patients | $380,000 - $520,000 |
| High-Volume Practice | 30-40 major procedures | 50-70 patients | $580,000 - $800,000+ |
Surgeons who pursue additional fellowship training in subspecialties often command higher fees due to their specialized expertise:
The surgical career path requires immense dedication, but for those who complete the journey, the financial and professional rewards are substantial. If you're exploring surgical career opportunities, understanding these income structures helps you make informed decisions about specialization and practice models.
One of the most significant factors affecting doctor income in Australia is the choice between public hospital employment and private practice. Each pathway offers distinct advantages, challenges, and earning potential. Let's dive deep into what you can expect from each sector!
Many doctors don't choose one or the other exclusively—hybrid models combining public hospital work with private practice have become increasingly common, offering the best of both worlds.
| Position Type | Public Hospital | Private Practice | Mixed Model |
|---|---|---|---|
| Junior Doctor (Intern-Resident) | $75,000 - $95,000 | N/A | N/A |
| Registrar | $95,000 - $145,000 | Locum: $150-$250/hr | $110,000 - $175,000 |
| Staff Specialist/VMO | $200,000 - $350,000 | N/A (full private only) | $250,000 - $420,000 |
| General Practitioner | $150,000 - $220,000 | $200,000 - $450,000 | $180,000 - $320,000 |
| Medical Specialist | $220,000 - $380,000 | $300,000 - $700,000+ | $280,000 - $550,000 |
| Surgeon | $240,000 - $420,000 | $350,000 - $900,000+ | $320,000 - $650,000 |
While public sector salaries may appear lower, they come with substantial benefits that significantly increase total compensation value:
Private practice offers significantly higher earning potential, but comes with substantial additional costs and responsibilities:
| Income/Expense Category | Annual Amount | Percentage of Revenue |
|---|---|---|
| Gross Billings (Example GP) | $400,000 | 100% |
| Less: Practice Rent/Facilities | -$40,000 - $60,000 | 10-15% |
| Less: Staff Salaries | -$50,000 - $80,000 | 12-20% |
| Less: Indemnity Insurance | -$8,000 - $15,000 | 2-4% |
| Less: Other Expenses (equipment, supplies, IT, etc.) | -$20,000 - $40,000 | 5-10% |
| Net Income Before Tax | $200,000 - $280,000 | 50-70% |
Many Australian doctors work in mixed billing arrangements, seeing both public and private patients. This model offers several advantages:
💡 Which Model is Right for You?
Beyond salary, work-life balance differs significantly between sectors:
| Factor | Public Hospital | Private Practice |
|---|---|---|
| Working Hours | Rostered shifts, defined hours (though often extended) | Flexible but often longer to maximize income |
| On-Call Duties | Regular on-call with overtime payments | Self-determined, can limit if desired |
| Holiday Coverage | Hospital arranges coverage, paid leave | Must arrange own coverage or lose income |
| Administrative Burden | Clinical focus with hospital admin support | Significant business management responsibilities |
| Patient Complexity | More complex, acute cases | Often more elective, less acute |
| Income Stability | Guaranteed regular salary | Variable based on patient volume |
When considering medical positions in Australia, the public vs. private decision is about more than just salary—it's about lifestyle, career goals, and personal values. Many doctors find their ideal arrangement evolves throughout their career as priorities shift.
Where you practice medicine in Australia significantly impacts your earning potential! Each state and territory has different award rates, cost of living considerations, and market dynamics that affect doctor salaries. Let's break down what you can expect across Australia's regions.
| State/Territory | Junior Doctor (PGY1-3) | Registrar | GP Average | Specialist Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| New South Wales | $76,500 - $92,800 | $108,000 - $128,000 | $195,000 - $310,000 | $290,000 - $520,000 |
| Victoria | $75,200 - $91,400 | $106,000 - $125,000 | $190,000 - $305,000 | $285,000 - $510,000 |
| Queensland | $77,800 - $94,200 | $110,000 - $130,000 | $200,000 - $340,000 | $295,000 - $550,000 |
| Western Australia | $78,900 - $95,600 | $112,000 - $135,000 | $210,000 - $380,000 | $310,000 - $620,000 |
| South Australia | $74,800 - $90,200 | $105,000 - $123,000 | $185,000 - $295,000 | $275,000 - $480,000 |
| Tasmania | $75,500 - $91,800 | $107,000 - $126,000 | $195,000 - $320,000 | $280,000 - $500,000 |
| Northern Territory | $82,500 - $98,900 | $118,000 - $142,000 | $240,000 - $480,000 | $350,000 - $700,000+ |
| Australian Capital Territory | $76,200 - $92,400 | $108,000 - $127,000 | $200,000 - $330,000 | $295,000 - $540,000 |
Raw salary figures don't tell the complete story—cost of living varies dramatically across Australian states. Here's what your salary really buys you:
| State/Territory | Cost of Living Index | Median House Price | Real Purchasing Power |
|---|---|---|---|
| New South Wales (Sydney) | 110 (High) | $1,200,000 | Medium |
| Victoria (Melbourne) | 105 (High) | $950,000 | Medium |
| Queensland (Brisbane) | 98 (Moderate) | $820,000 | High |
| Western Australia (Perth) | 102 (Moderate) | $750,000 | High |
| South Australia (Adelaide) | 92 (Low) | $680,000 | Very High |
| Tasmania (Hobart) | 94 (Low) | $720,000 | Very High |
| Northern Territory (Darwin) | 108 (High) | $580,000 | Very High |
| ACT (Canberra) | 106 (High) | $890,000 | Medium-High |
Working in rural or remote areas can significantly boost your income through various government and employer incentives. Australia uses the Modified Monash (MM) classification system to categorize locations:
| MM Classification | Location Type | Typical Incentives | Income Boost |
|---|---|---|---|
| MM 1 | Major Cities | None | Baseline |
| MM 2 | Regional Centers | Minor incentives | +$5,000-$15,000 |
| MM 3-4 | Large Rural Towns | Relocation, housing assistance | +$15,000-$40,000 |
| MM 5-6 | Medium Rural Towns | Significant bonuses, housing, car | +$40,000-$80,000 |
| MM 7 | Very Remote | Major packages, tax benefits | +$80,000-$150,000+ |
🏥 Top Earning States for Doctors:
When exploring medical positions across Australia, don't just focus on base salary—consider the complete package including incentives, cost of living, career opportunities, and lifestyle factors. The highest-paying location isn't always the best choice for long-term career satisfaction and financial success!