Australia
Australia is known as the "lucky country" for many reasons. Lifestyle, environment, careers and training. Hospitals are innovative, Consultants approachable and the salaries and hours allow doctors to have an enjoyable way of life.
Hospitals
Australian hospitals and training are modeled on the UK and US health systems. They are innovative and are leaders when it comes to research. The Hospitals are very well equipped with modern equipment, technology and facilities. This includes direct phone, email and computer links from regional hospitals to base hospitals.
Hospital staff are known for being friendly, personal and very professional creating an informal and friendly environment. Consultants are approachable and want to guide junior doctors along in their career.
Medicare, Australia’s government funded provider, offers free medical assistance for Australian citizens (and those citizens of countries with reciprocal agreements) through Public Hospitals throughout Australia.
Salaries can vary between States, and each State government sets the rate of pay, based on a 38 hour week. Unless specified, doctors who work more than 38 hours per week are paid penalty rates. If you are rostered on nights, weekends or public holidays you are also paid penalty rate for these.
Doctors in all States are able to salary sacrifice a portion of their pay, which minimises your tax. Depending on the hospital, 30% of your income can be tax-free. On arrival to Australia, we highly recommend you discuss this option with the Hospital’s finance department or an accountant.
Below is a quick indication on what doctors may earn as a base salary:-
- Resident / House Officer – $60,000 - $80,000
- Registrar - $65,000 - $100,000
- Consultant - $120,000 - $250,000
On top of your salary, most hospitals offer the following:-
- Annual Leave – up to 5 weeks paid leave per year
- Superannuation – this is a government requirement and it is paid in additional to your salary. Doctors returning to their own countries are able to apply for their superannuation contributions to be released when they leave Australia – it is on the back of the customs form.
- Meals and Accommodation – these may be provided free or subsidized.
When judged against working in other countries, Australia has come out favourably when comparing lifestyle and work commitments.
For more information, please register now.
- Working In Australia
- Locum Doctor Information
- Locum in Australia
- Australian Hospitals
- Medical Council Registration
- Work Visa
- Lifestyle
- Taxation
Specialist recruiters of doctors for Australia and New Zealand
- providing opportunities
Telephone: +61 2 4381 1449
Australian Mobile: 0438 267 888
NZ Mobile: 0210 263 1013
