Salary of gynaecology and ​obstetrician specialists in Australia - how does yours compare?

In the realm of medical specialities, Obstetrics and Gynaecology hold a place of paramount importance. These specialists focus on women's reproductive health and childbirth, playing a crucial role in the continuum of women’s health care throughout their lives. In Australia, as with many countries worldwide, the services of gynaecologists and obstetricians are both highly sought-after and well-compensated.

Factors influencing O&G salary in 2024:

Several determinants can influence the earnings of a gynaecologist and obstetrician in Australia:

Experience and expertise: Newly qualified specialists typically start on the lower end of the pay scale. However, as they accrue experience, their salary can see significant enhancements.

Location: Urban centres with a high population density, like Sydney or Melbourne, might offer higher salaries. However, some rural or remote areas, facing a shortage of specialists, may provide lucrative packages to attract and retain talent.

Type of practice: The choice between private practice and public hospitals can significantly influence earning potential. While public hospitals might offer a more structured pay scale, private practices can be more profitable, especially with a growing patient base.

Sub-specialisation: Within gynaecology and obstetrics, there are further sub-specialities, such as reproductive medicine or maternal-foetal medicine. Specialists in certain niches might command higher fees due to the specificity and complexity of their services.

Average salary overview:

On average, a gynaecologist and obstetrician in Australia can expect to earn between AUD$200,000 to AUD$500,000 annually, though this can fluctuate based on the factors mentioned earlier:

Entry-level specialists: Those at the beginning of their careers can expect earnings in the range of AUD$150,000 to AUD$250,000. As they consolidate their skills, build reputation, and expand their network, this number sees a steady increase.

Senior gynaecologists and obstetricians: With a reputation for excellence and years of experience, these specialists can earn towards the higher end of the spectrum, with some even surpassing AUD$500,000, especially if they have a flourishing private practice.

Locum pay rates for O&G registrars, specialists, and Visiting Medical Officers are often higher than permanent pay rates.

Average locum pay rates for gynaecology and obstetrician doctors:

Resident medical officers (RMO): AUD$80 – AUD$250 per hour

Registrars: AUD$100 – AUD$300 per hour

O&G Consultants: AUD$2,000 – AUD$4,000 per day

How gynaecology/obstetricians can increase their income

A career in O&G is challenging and rewarding. It offers a wide range of job opportunities across Australia; in hospitals, clinics, public and private health settings.

Where you work and the nature of the work you undertake can have an impact on how much you earn.
Locuming is a great option to increase your income, either alongside a permanent position, or full-time locuming

Undertaking subspecialist training will increase your income. If you are a Fellow of RANZCOG, you can train to work exclusively in Gynaecological Oncology, Urogynaecology, Reproductive medicine, Maternal and Fetal medicine, or Obstetrical & Gynaecological Ultrasound

Diversify your workload. Private healthcare work is often better paid, but doing a mix of public and private healthcare work helps broaden your skills, experience and professional network.

Comparison with other medical specialities:

While gynaecologists and obstetricians are among the higher earners in the medical community, their earnings are comparable to other surgical specialists. The intense training, long hours, and the high-stress nature of their job – especially for those focusing on obstetrics – justify their compensation.

Choosing a career in gynaecology and obstetrics in Australia is not just a decision driven by passion for women's health; it's also a financially rewarding choice. The country’s emphasis on providing top-tier healthcare, combined with the essential nature of services offered by gynaecologists and obstetricians, ensures that this specialty remains among the most esteemed and well-remunerated in the medical field. As Australia's healthcare system continues to evolve, these specialists will undeniably remain integral to its success.

Looking for top-paying O&G roles? Work with us to tap into a wealth of great opportunities for skilled gynaecology/obstetricians. We have a team dedicated to finding you your ideal doctor job.

Want to learn about the highest rates and hottest locations for doctors in Australia right now? Download our brand new and free 2024 Job Market Report.