What is a registrar doctor's salary in Australia?
Becoming a medical registrar in Australia requires dedication, hard work, and a commitment to the healthcare profession. As a full-time registrar doctor, you can expect a competitive salary that reflects your responsibilities and expertise. In this article, we explore the average salary of a registrar doctor in Australia and discuss factors that may influence this figure.
What is a medical registrar?
A medical registrar is a fully qualified doctor who has completed their internship and is pursuing specialist training in a specific field, such as internal medicine, surgery, or emergency medicine. They work under the supervision of a consultant, taking on full-time responsibilities, which include diagnosing and treating patients, coordinating care, and mentoring junior doctors.
Factors affecting a registrar doctor's salary in Australia
A registrar doctor's salary in Australia can vary depending on several factors, such as:
- The medical specialty chosen
- The number of years of experience in the profession
- Geographical location (urban or rural)
- The type of healthcare facility (public or private)
Average salary of a full-time registrar doctor in Australia
In Australia, a full-time registrar doctor's national average salary ranges from AUD $90,000 to AUD $200,000 per year. However, this figure can vary significantly depending on the factors mentioned earlier. Additionally, some medical specialties may offer higher salaries due to increased demand, complexity, or additional training requirements.
Locum registrars earn up to AUD $2,800 per day and up to AUD $90 - AUD $300 an hour.
Comparing salaries across medical specialties
Salaries for medical registrars can differ depending on the specialty. For instance, surgical registrars often earn higher salaries than those specialising in general medicine. Furthermore, fields like cardiology, radiology, neurology, and emergency medicine tend to offer more competitive pay due to their complex nature and the demand for skilled professionals.
Benefits and opportunities for registrar doctors
Besides a competitive salary, full-time registrar doctors in Australia can also enjoy numerous professional benefits, such as:
- Comprehensive training and education opportunities
- The potential for career progression and growth
- Access to a supportive network of peers and mentors
- The chance to make a significant impact on patient care and outcomes
Future salary prospects for medical registrars
As medical registrars progress in their careers and complete their specialist training, they can expect their salaries to increase. After becoming consultants or specialists, they may earn between AUD $200,000 and AUD $500,000 per year, depending on their experience, location, and chosen specialty.
How a registrar doctor can increase their salary
Locum doctors are earning up to $4000/day. How does your salary compare? Find out in our free FY25 Australian Doctor Salary Guide.
Download nowThere are many ways a registrar doctor can increase their salary. Some of these include:
- Pick up locum work
- Work in rural or remote locations where you are much needed
- Pick up last-minute shifts that are paying more
- Specialise in an area of medicine that is offering higher pay due to its complex nature
A registrar doctor's salary in Australia is competitive and reflective of their essential role in the healthcare system. While specialty, experience, and location can influence the salary, full-time registrars can expect to earn a comfortable income while enjoying numerous professional benefits. By understanding medical registrars' salary expectations and future prospects, aspiring doctors can make informed decisions about their career paths and specialty choices.
Looking to earn more as a registrar? Search Australasia's largest network of registrar jobs now.