Paediatricians—doctors dedicated to the health and well-being of children—are vital to Australia’s healthcare system. If you’ve ever wondered how much these specialists earn, the answer is both impressive and variable. Let’s break down the numbers, compare regions, and explore how you can enter this rewarding profession.
How Much Do Paediatricians Earn in Australia?
Paediatrician salaries in Australia depend heavily on experience, location, and employment sector. Here’s a clear comparison across experience levels.
| Experience Level | Average Annual Salary (AUD) | Approximate Monthly Salary (AUD) | Approximate Hourly Rate (AUD) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level | $70,000 – $85,000 | $5,800 – $7,100 | $36 – $45 |
| Mid-level (Registrar) | $110,000 – $150,000 | $9,200 – $12,500 | $56 – $75 |
| Senior-level (Consultant) | $250,000 – $400,000+ | $20,800 – $33,300+ | $125 – $200+ |
Disclaimer: These figures are estimates. Actual salary can vary due to factors like employer type (public vs. private), geographic location, subspecialisation, and market demand.
Senior paediatricians—especially those in private practice or with subspecialties—can earn significantly more, sometimes exceeding $400,000 annually. Locum (temporary) paediatricians may earn $2,200–$3,000 per day, reflecting the high demand for their skills in certain regions.
Regional Differences
Location is a major factor in paediatrician salaries across Australia. Generally, remote and under-served areas offer higher pay to attract specialists, while major cities with higher living costs sometimes offer lower base salaries.
| State/Territory | Approximate Annual Salary Range (AUD) |
|---|---|
| New South Wales | Lower than national average, despite Sydney’s high living costs |
| Victoria | Slightly above average for specialists |
| Queensland | High, especially in rural/remote areas |
| Western Australia | Very high, up to $430,000+ |
| South Australia | Up to $360,000 |
| Tasmania | Around $330,000 (average $287,902) |
| Northern Territory | Highest, up to $460,000 |
Disclaimer: These values are approximate and can fluctuate based on local needs, cost of living, and government incentives.
Doctors in the Northern Territory, Western Australia, and Queensland often receive additional benefits and incentives, making these regions attractive for those seeking higher earnings.
How to Become a Paediatrician in Australia
Becoming a paediatrician in Australia is a long but structured journey:
- Complete a medical degree (Bachelor of Medicine/Bachelor of Surgery, MBBS, or equivalent) from an accredited Australian university.
- Internship: After graduating, complete a supervised internship (usually 1 year) in a hospital.
- Residency: Enter the Resident Medical Officer (RMO) phase, gaining broad clinical experience.
- Registrar Training: Apply for the Paediatric Basic Training Program through the Royal Australasian College of Physicians (RACP). This involves further study and examinations.
- Advanced Training: Specialise further (e.g., neonatology, paediatric oncology) through the RACP’s Advanced Training Program.
- Fellowship: After completing training and passing exams, gain Fellowship of the RACP (FRACP) in Paediatrics.
Alternative Pathways: While traditional medical school is the standard route, some universities offer graduate-entry medical programs for those with a prior bachelor’s degree. Online courses or industry-specific programs are not sufficient for medical registration but can supplement professional development.
Certification Links:
- For detailed training requirements, visit the Royal Australasian College of Physicians (RACP) https://www.racp.edu.au
- For medical school information, check the Australian Medical Council https://www.amc.org.au
Licensing: All doctors must be registered with the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA) to practise.
Duties of a Paediatrician in Australia
Paediatricians are responsible for a wide range of child health activities, including:
- Diagnosing and treating illnesses, infections, injuries, and other health problems in infants, children, and adolescents.
- Monitoring growth and development milestones.
- Providing preventive care, including vaccinations and health education for families.
- Managing chronic conditions such as asthma, diabetes, and developmental disorders.
- Coordinating care with other healthcare professionals, including nurses, specialists, and allied health workers.
- Offering guidance on nutrition, safety, and mental health.
- Conducting research and participating in clinical trials to advance paediatric medicine.
Where Can a Paediatrician Work in Australia?
Paediatricians work in diverse settings:
- Public Hospitals: Major paediatric departments and children’s hospitals.
- Private Practice: Consulting rooms, often in partnership with other specialists.
- Community Health Centres: Providing outreach and preventive services.
- Universities and Research Institutions: Teaching and conducting medical research.
- Government and Non-Profit Organisations: Policy development, public health initiatives, and advocacy.
Job Prospects for Paediatricians in Australia
Demand for paediatricians remains strong, especially in rural and remote areas where healthcare access is limited. The profession offers excellent job security and opportunities for career advancement, particularly for those willing to work outside major cities.
Future scope is positive, with ongoing needs in subspecialties (e.g., neonatology, paediatric cardiology) and community health. Competition can be higher in metropolitan areas, but those open to regional roles will find more openings and higher incentives.
In summary, paediatrics is a fulfilling and well-compensated medical career in Australia, with salaries reflecting experience, location, and specialisation. If you’re passionate about child health and willing to undertake rigorous training, the rewards—both professional and financial—can be substantial.
Sufiyan, a passionate IT professional and finance enthusiast dedicated to simplifying financial clarity for every Australian. With years of experience in both tech and personal finance, Sufiyan oversees all content to ensure accuracy, usability, and relevance.