How much do ER doctors earn in Australia?

Emergency medicine physicians, also known as ER doctors, are a vital component of the healthcare system in Australia. Their role involves the assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of patients with acute and life-threatening illnesses or injuries. The demand for skilled ER doctors has been consistently increasing, which is reflected in their earning potential.

As first responders in life-threatening situations, emergency physicians play a vital role in providing immediate care and treatment to patients in urgent need. In Australia, emergency physicians are well-compensated for their expertise and commitment, with salaries varying depending on experience, location, and qualifications. This article offers an in-depth analysis of the salary range for emergency physicians in Australia, including the emergency medicine consultant and emergency medicine doctor salary.

The earning potential for ER doctors in Australia is quite attractive and competitive within the medical profession. With an average salary that increases as they progress through their career, emergency medicine physicians can expect to earn a rewarding income while making a meaningful contribution to the healthcare system. The ongoing demand for skilled emergency medicine professionals ensures that their expertise will continue to be valued, offering a stable and fulfilling career path in this vital area of healthcare.

Average salary of emergency doctors and factors affecting remuneration

In Australia, the average salary in 2025 for an emergency medicine physician is between AUD$250,000 to AUD$450,000 per year, depending on various factors. These factors include years of experience, geographical location, and the type of healthcare facility in which they work. The Australasian College for Emergency Medicine (ACEM) is the leading professional body for emergency medicine in Australia and New Zealand, responsible for the training, accreditation, and professional development of emergency physicians.

Emergency medicine consultant salary in Australia

Emergency medicine consultants, who have completed their fellowship with ACEM and possess additional expertise, command higher salaries. These highly skilled professionals are responsible for overseeing the emergency department, providing guidance to junior staff, and making crucial decisions on patient care. The average emergency medicine consultant salary in Australia ranges from AUD$250,000 to AUD$450,000 per year, reflecting their advanced skills and experience.

These figures can vary, as some physicians may receive additional income through overtime, on-call allowances, and other financial incentives. In general, doctors working in metropolitan areas tend to earn higher salaries compared to those practising in rural or remote locations. However, some rural and remote healthcare facilities may offer unique incentives and allowances to attract and retain skilled ER doctors.

We are seeing emergency medicine consultants earning between AUD$2,000 - $3,000 per day for locum roles.

Intensive care medicine and its impact on emergency physician salaries

Some emergency physicians may choose to sub-specialise in intensive care medicine, focusing on the care and management of critically ill patients. This sub-specialisation often requires additional training and qualifications, resulting in higher remuneration packages for those who pursue this career path. Emergency physicians with expertise in intensive care medicine can expect to earn salaries on the higher end of the scale, with some earning in excess of AUD$500,000 per year.

Geographical location and its influence on salaries

The geographical location of an emergency physician's practice can significantly impact their salary. In general, urban areas offer higher salaries due to increased living costs and a greater demand for emergency medical services. However, rural and remote areas may also provide competitive remuneration packages to attract and retain emergency physicians, as these regions often face challenges in securing qualified medical professionals.

Career progression and opportunities for medical students

For medical students considering a career in emergency medicine, there are numerous opportunities for professional growth and development. Upon completing their medical degree, students must undertake an internship followed by several years of postgraduate training in emergency medicine. Once they have obtained their fellowship with ACEM, they can pursue a consultant role, which offers increased remuneration and greater responsibility within the healthcare system.

In conclusion, emergency physicians in Australia enjoy competitive salaries, with emergency medicine consultants earning even higher remuneration due to their advanced skills and experience. Factors such as experience, location, and qualifications play a crucial role in determining a physician's salary within the field of emergency medicine. With the ongoing demand for skilled emergency physicians in Australia, this profession remains a rewarding and lucrative career choice, offering numerous opportunities for personal and professional growth.

Is an emergency doctor a good career?

Emergency Medicine (EM) is an exciting and rewarding career choice, it is a great option for those who want a fast-paced environment, variety, and a challenge.

Emergency medicine is an excellent career choice in Australia for those seeking a fulfilling and dynamic profession in healthcare. As an emergency medicine physician, you play a crucial role in providing immediate care to patients with acute and life-threatening conditions. The demand for skilled ER doctors in Australia is consistently high, ensuring job stability and growth opportunities. With competitive salaries, the potential for additional income through overtime and allowances, and the chance to make a significant impact on patient's lives, pursuing a career in emergency medicine in Australia offers both personal and professional rewards.

Emergency medicine is often the only place to which a patient or family can turn, your work can make a real difference in the lives of patients and their families.

How can I earn more money as an emergency doctor?

There are lots of ways you can earn more as an emergency doctor. While working more hours and doing more procedures is one way – it’s not the only one. Here’s how you can boost your ED doctor earnings.

Go rural. In Metropolitan hospitals there is more competition when it comes to doctor jobs, but there is often a greater need for ED doctors in rural or remote locations so you may find these roles pay more.

Increase your skillset, leadership skills are important in being able to keep an overview of the department and to ensure that your time and skills are directed towards the sickest people in the ED.

Try locuming. Emergency doctors have the ability to earn more locuming, pick up additional shifts around your permanent role, or become a full-time locum. Locum shifts often pay well because you could be providing much-needed last-minute cover. Again, rural locum work is the best-paid, but there are locum opportunities throughout Australia.

Do you want to learn about the highest rates and hottest locations for doctors in Australia in 2023? Download our free brand new Job Market Report.