Optometry offers a rewarding career helping Australians maintain and improve their vision health. For those considering entering this profession or curious about earning potential, understanding optometrists’ salary landscape across Australia is essential.
How Much Do Optometrrist Earn In Australia?
Below is a clear breakdown of estimated salaries for optometrists based on experience levels in Australia in 2025:
| Experience Level | Annual Salary (AUD) | Monthly Salary (AUD) | Hourly Wage (AUD) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (0-1 year) | $77,670 – $105,750 | $6,472 – $8,812 | $37 – $50 |
| Mid-level (2-5 years) | $86,900 – $120,000 | $7,242 – $10,000 | $42 – $57 |
| Senior-level (5+ years) | $120,000 – $167,585 | $10,000 – $13,965 | $57 – $79 |
These figures represent approximate ranges factoring in skills, specialization, and employer differences. They are intended as general guides and actual pay may vary depending on employer, market changes, and individual experience.
Regional Differences
Geographical location plays a significant role in salary variations. Here is an overview of optometry salaries by Australian state and territory:
| Region | Average Annual Salary (AUD) |
|---|---|
| New South Wales (NSW) | $100,000 – $120,000 |
| Victoria (VIC) | $95,000 – $115,000 |
| Queensland (QLD) | $90,000 – $110,000 |
| South Australia (SA) | $85,000 – $105,000 |
| Western Australia (WA) | $100,000 – $110,000 |
| Tasmania (TAS) | $80,000 – $100,000 |
| Australian Capital Territory (ACT) | $110,000 – $130,000 |
| Northern Territory (NT) | $120,000 – $135,000 |
Salaries tend to be higher in major cities such as Sydney and Canberra due to cost of living and patient demand. Additionally, some rural and regional areas offer competitive or even higher pay due to limited practitioner availability. These numbers are estimates and actual salaries can change based on employer, demand and experience.
How to Become Optometrist in Australia
To become an optometrist in Australia, key steps include:
- Educational qualifications: Complete a professional degree such as a Bachelor of Vision Science followed by a Master of Optometry from an accredited university like University of Melbourne, Deakin University, or Queensland University of Technology.
- Registration and certification: Register with the Optometry Board of Australia to gain practising license. This involves meeting standards, passing national examinations, and committing to continuing professional development.
- Practical training: Undertake supervised clinical placements during university study to gain hands-on experience.
- Alternative pathways: Some may complete recognised bridging courses or online programs tailored for international graduates or career-changers. These pathways often culminate in the Competency in Optometry Examination by the Optometry Council of Australia and New Zealand (OCANZ).
For official certification details and registration, visit:
Duties of Optometrist In Australia
Typical daily responsibilities include:
- Conducting comprehensive eye examinations and vision tests.
- Diagnosing vision problems, eye conditions, and diseases.
- Prescribing corrective lenses such as glasses or contact lenses.
- Providing therapy or management plans for ocular diseases.
- Referring patients to ophthalmologists or other specialists when needed.
- Advising patients on eye health, preventive care, and lifestyle choices.
- Maintaining accurate patient records and reports.
- Participating in ongoing professional development and research.
Where Can An Optometrist Work in Australia?
Optometrists work across diverse settings including:
- Private eye care clinics and optical stores.
- Hospitals and health care centers.
- Community health services.
- Research institutions and universities.
- Public health and government agencies.
- Rural and remote health services.
Most optometrists work full-time, often in metropolitan areas, but regional and rural practices offer growing opportunities as well.
Job Prospects For Optometrist In Australia
The outlook for optometrists in Australia is strong. Increasing demand for eye care driven by aging populations and greater health awareness has expanded employment opportunities. Both urban centers and regional communities require optometry services, with rural roles generally offering higher pay and attractive lifestyles. Additionally, specialization fields such as pediatric or neurological optometry can enhance career prospects and income.
Employment growth and stability in this profession are supported by government healthcare initiatives and private sector investment, making optometry a promising and secure career choice.
This overview provides a practical, informative snapshot for aspiring or current optometrists in Australia to make informed career decisions considering salary expectations, regional factors, training paths, and job outlook.
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.