Doctor Jobs in Australia: Average Pay, Scope & More 2025

Written by

Sukanta Bera

Fact check by

Shreya Pandey

Updated on

Feb 22,2025

Doctor Jobs in Australia: Opportunities, Application and More - TerraTern

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Doctors have turned to Australia for myriad opportunities as the demand for healthcare professionals continues to increase in urban and rural areas. With a projected shortage of 7,000 GPs by 2030 and increasing government investments in healthcare, now is the perfect time to explore the opportunities for doctor jobs in Australia. Whether you are a graduate in Australia or a medical professional elsewhere in the world, understanding what's required, the trends for salary, and the application process will make sure you land an engaging job. It is even easy to find jobs for homoeopathic doctors in Australia. Here is a comprehensive guide that explains everything about becoming a doctor in Australia.

Latest Facts and News:

  • Australia faces a shortage of 7,000 GPs by 2030, creating a high demand for doctors.

  • The Australian government is investing $550 million to attract doctors to rural areas.

  • Telehealth consultations have increased by 70% since 2020, opening new job opportunities.

  • International medical graduates now make up 30% of Australia's medical workforce.

  • The average salary for doctor jobs in Australia has increased by 3.5% in 2024.

 

Overview of Doctor Jobs in Australia

Australia's health sector continues to grow rapidly, hence ensuring a heavy demand for doctor jobs in Australia in different specialities. It is expected that, between now and 2030, the country will have 7,000 fewer GPs, with more pronounced shortages being felt in areas characterised as rural or remote. The government has already set aside $550 million to lure medical practitioners into underserved regions.

Overview of Doctor Jobs in Australia - TerraTern

Types of Doctor Jobs in Australia

Doctors in Australia can choose diverse career paths aligned with their experience and interest areas. The highly sought-after specialities doctor jobs in Australia include:

  • General Practitioners (GPs): There is an acute shortage, mainly in rural and regional settings

  • Specialists: The demand for specialists within doctor jobs in Australia is very high, including cardiology, anaesthesia, and radiology, not only in the public but also in the private sectors.

  • Emergency Medicine Doctors: A large number can be found within metropolitan hospitals as well as in regional clinics.

  • Paediatricians: Demand is increasing with time in Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane cities.

  • Surgeons: Remunerations are highly competitive, and there are excellent career prospects in several surgical specialities.

  • Medical Researchers: Work opportunities at universities as medical lecturer is a key job profile within doctor jobs in Australia.

  • Telehealth Doctors: An emerging field, telehealth consultation has increased by 70% since 2020.

Also Read: Work and Holiday Visa Australia: Latest Subclass 462 Guide

Salary Expectations for Doctor Jobs in Australia

The salary of doctors in Australia will vary according to specialisations, years of practice, and geography. Along with a good salary, the Australian work culture is excellent, and a fine healthcare network makes it very lucrative for working physicians.

Role in the Medical Field

Average Salary (AUD)

General Practice Physician

250,000-400,000

Medical Specialized Expertise

300,000-600,000

ER Specialist

280,000-500,000

Paediatrician

200,000-350,000

Surgical Practitioner

350,000-700,000

Requirements to get a Doctor job in Australia

One needs to adhere to certain set educational, licensure, and regulatory requirements. Both domestic graduates and international graduates need to pursue a structured application process before exercising their profession as a doctor.

Qualifications and Certifications

To practice the profession of medical science in the country, they need to achieve a recognised qualification in medicine coupled with appropriate clinical training. All this depends upon whether the practising doctor is home-grown or an international student.

The medical degree must be gained through an accredited Australian university, and the graduates must undertake an internship at a registered hospital.

In the case of International Medical Graduates (IMGs), candidates must have a recognised medical degree, participate in the exams by the AMC and must sit for the AMC's series of exams or complete a supervised training program approved under the relevant overseas country's medical training provisions.

Specialist Qualifications: IMGs who hold qualifications as specialists are required to seek the Medical Board of Australia's consideration to establish direct registration or undertake additional training

Registration with the Medical Board of Australia

Every clinical practitioner is responsible for applying for registration in AHPRA under the purview of the Medical Board of Australia. This can be achieved:

  • Primary Source Verification (PSV): IMGs must seek verification of credentials using EPIC Electronic Portfolio International Credentials.

  • AMC Examination or Competent Authority Pathway: IMGs must either pass the AMC exams or be assessed through an approved authority such as the UK's General Medical Council (GMC) or Canada's Medical Council of Canada (MCC).

  • Provisional or Limited Registration: The amount of supervised practice required varies based on experience before IMGs can obtain full registration.

Registration with the Medical Board of Australia - TerraTern

Full registration is granted once all the required qualifications are completed. General or specialist registration enables doctors to practice independently.

The journey through the medical registration system of Australia can be quite complicated; however, by holding the right qualifications and preparation, doctors can get opportunities to work in one of the best healthcare systems around the world.

How to Apply for Doctor Job in Australia?

Thinking of "how to apply for doctor job in Australia?" well, don't think further; we've got you. Applying for doctor jobs in Australia involves a very formalised process, especially for IMGs. From preparing that perfect application to getting the right opportunities, here is a step-by-step guide that should ease you through the job application process.

Preparing Your Application

A well-written CV and cover letter are good prospects for getting a medical job. Australian employers of healthcare will look for an individual with robust clinical skills, relevant experience, and a well-defined commitment towards patient care.

  • Medical CV: Concise and professional, focusing on clinical experience, qualifications, and procedural skills.

  • Cover Letter: Tailor each one to the job, focusing on your suitability for the role and alignment with the employer's needs.

  • References: Good professional reference is essential, ideally from a supervisor or colleague.

Finding Job Opportunities

There are several portals where you can look for doctor jobs in Australia. The most effective way of searching includes the following:

  • Job Portals: Seek Jora and Health Workforce Queensland to post the job openings and requirements of the respective specialisations.

  • Recruitment Agencies: Global Medics, Wavelength International, and Skilled Medical offer recruitment services for Australian hospitals and clinics.

  • Hospital and Health Network Websites: Most public and private hospitals now post available jobs on their website.

  • Professional Networking: Connecting through professional bodies like the AMA as well as participation in conferences, seminars, or workshops.

Average Doctor Salary in Australia - TerraTern

This will possibly not take you much more tedious time, given that you will be investing quality time to get prepared as well as applying it in strategy terms. And in this respect, you are sure to embark on your new career in medicine with Australia.

Also Read: Top Colleges in Melbourne Australia: Latest Study Guide

Average Doctor Salary in Australia

The doctor jobs in Australia are matched with a high-paying salary depending on the experience specialising in that area and location. The average annual remuneration is as follows:

Medical Role

Average Annual Salary (AUD)

General Practitioner (GP)

150,000 – 300,000

Specialist Doctor

200,000 – 500,000

Emergency Medicine Doctor

180,000 – 400,000

Surgeon

250,000 – 600,000

Anaesthetist

300,000 – 600,000

Paediatrician

180,000 – 350,000

Psychiatrist

200,000 – 450,000

Radiologist

250,000 – 500,000

Junior Doctor (Intern/Resident)

70,000 – 120,000

Senior Consultant

250,000 – 500,000

What Determines the Doctor's Salary?

  • Experience

  • Location

  • Workplace

  • Specialisation 

Latest Job Opportunities for Doctors in Australia

Job Opportunities for Doctors in Australia - TerraTern

Australia provides varied job opportunities for doctors in Australia, from large metropolitan hospitals to community-based services in rural settings. The growth of demand in various regions makes available a broad range of different specialisations in the profession of doctors.

Urban vs. Rural Medical Jobs

The urban vs. rural aspect can also provide the opportunity to choose from two very different work environments with different challenges:

Aspect

Urban Medical Positions

Rural Medical Positions

Work Environment

Large hospitals, specialized clinics

Community clinics, regional hospitals

Salary & Incentives

Competitive salary, standard benefits

Higher salary, government incentives

Work-Life Balance

Fast-paced, structured schedules

Flexible schedules, broader scope of practice

Career Growth

Access to cutting-edge research and technology

More leadership roles due to fewer specialists

Patient Demographics

Diverse population, varied cases

Close-knit communities, generalist practice

Specialisations in High Demand

Certain medical fields are experiencing significant shortages and increasing demand for specialists. Some of the most sought-after roles include:

  • General Practitioners (GPs): high demand in both urban and rural regions.

  • Psychiatrists: Growing need due to rising mental health concerns.

  • Anaesthetists are essential for surgical procedures in hospitals across Australia.

  • Emergency Medicine Specialists: Vital to public as well as private hospitals.

  • Aged Care Specialists: This is on the rise due to the increasing age of the population in Australia.

  • Obstetricians and gynaecologists are needed in hospital setups or private offices.

The Australian healthcare system provides continuous employment openings for skilled experts, and jobs are highly competitive with good money.

Top Paying Branches of Doctor Jobs in Australia

Salaries for doctor jobs in Australia vary with consideration of experience, location, and the public or private sector in which the doctor works. The following is the comparison of the most well-paying medical specialities:

Medical Specialty

Average Annual Salary (AUD)

Neurosurgery

600,000 – 1,000,000

Cardiology

450,000 – 800,000

Orthopaedic Surgery

500,000 – 900,000

Plastic Surgery

450,000 – 850,000

Gastroenterology

400,000 – 700,000

Dermatology

350,000 – 600,000

Anesthesiology

350,000 – 650,000

Radiology

300,000 – 600,000

Emergency Medicine

250,000 – 500,000

General Surgery

300,000 – 550,000

Jobs for Homeopathic Doctors in Australia

Homoeopathy indeed has a certain niche market available in Australia, where it can be practised in a private setting and wellness centres within integrative health care. With homoeopathy yet to be an accepted form within the mainstream, there is a growing demand to jobs for homeopathic doctors in australia. 

Regulation of Homeopathy in Australia

Homoeopathy is considered a complementary therapy. It doesn't come under the aegis of Australia's conventional medical system. However, professionals do operate under the guidelines of consumer laws and regulations.

Key regulatory points:

  • No registration under AHPRA .

  • Professional accreditation is offered by ATMS (Australian Traditional Medicine Society) and AHA (Australian Homoeopathic Association).

  • Always follow the advertisement's regulations and avoid misleading the people.

Find Homeopathy Positions

Professional and online networks are also avenues homoeopaths can pursue to find a job. Many practitioners opt for self-employment, and others work in clinics that already exist. We are listing a few ways to grab jobs for homeopathic doctors in Australia.

Job Search Strategies:

  • Homoeopathic and natural therapy associations to network.

  • Openings in holistic health centres and wellness retreats.

  • Alternative medicine job boards to find employment.

  • Telehealth services to increase the reach of patients.

Also Read: Australia Study Visa Fees: Latest Tips, Apply, Requirements

Challenges and Considerations for International Doctors

International medical graduates face significant challenges when finding doctor jobs in Australia. For instance, acquiring AHPRA registration, completing visa processes, and adapting to a new healthcare system are some of the common challenges IMGs face in Australia. A breakdown of the hurdles and some practical solutions would be helpful for ease of process.

Challenge 1: AHPRA Registration

Solution:

Understand the specific requirements of your country. Use the AHPRA website for clear guidance, and consider seeking help from organisations that specialise in IMG registrations to avoid delays.

Challenge 2: Limited Availability of Jobs

Solution:

Focus your job search on regional and rural areas. These regions frequently have a higher demand for healthcare professionals. Additionally, connecting with medical networks and joining IMG job boards can help increase your chances of landing a position.

Visa Requirements for International Doctors

It is also critical to seek a visa appropriate for application, taking into consideration qualifications and job offers, which should be done from the Department of Home Affairs website or migration agent. Proper preparation of documentation, including proof of qualifications and experience, plays a significant role in a successful application.

  • Visa for Skilled Migration: This is an avenue for migrating to Australia whereby qualified persons would be able to live and work in Australia. It usually caters to professional doctors who already have some speciality experience.

  • Temporary Skill Shortage Visa (TSS): If one receives a job position in Australia, then the TSS visa comes in handy.  As mentioned earlier, one will be temporarily able to work there while in process of permanent residence.

Visa Requirements for International Doctors - TerraTern

Cultural Adaptation and Professional Integration

Overseas doctors face one big challenge while settling into Australia's medical workplace. The way people work and team up within healthcare systems can vary from the previous experience in your home country.

  • Understand the Australian Healthcare System: Understand how Australian hospitals work and their systems of medical practice.

  • Engage in Professional Development: Participate in training and orientation courses aimed at IMGs. They can help you understand the local medical practices and communicate with patients and professionals.

  • Join Support Networks: You may join support networks, such as those for IMGs. This way, you'll be able to link with fellow doctors who may have experienced similar things. It would support you as well as provide advice.

It takes time to adjust to the local work environment, but a proactive approach to learning and seeking support will ensure smooth integration into Australia's healthcare system.

Future of Medical Careers in Australia

The doctor jobs in Australia is changing with the innovation of technology and government initiatives in Australia. These trends are offering some new avenues for medical professionals.

Technological Innovation in Australian Healthcare

  • Telemedicine: Increasing access to healthcare in remote areas and offering new roles within virtual care.

  • Application of Artificial Intelligence in Healthcare: Changing diagnostics and patient care, and hence opening jobs in data analysis and AI integration.

  • Digital Health Jobs: New opportunities related to tech-informed healthcare delivery, such as health informatics and telemedicine jobs.

Government Plans and Healthcare Revamp

  • Healthcare Funding: Increased funding with a focus on service enhancement as well as hiring more doctors

  • Rural Incentives: Incentive-based programs which offer financial remuneration in exchange for staying in rural centres

  • Policy Revamp: Developing the medical workforce, opening avenues, especially at the regional levels.

 

Conclusion

Technological innovations and shifting government policies are changing the Australian medical job market, with many doctor jobs in Australia. The nation is slowly adopting telemedicine and AI and creating new job opportunities for both domestic and foreign doctors. There are many visas, a strong focus on the integration of the workforce, and an effective healthcare system that makes Australia a destination of choice for doctors.

Ready to take a step further on your medical journey? Check through the doctor visas available and explore how you, too, can be an integral part of Australia's action-packed healthcare setup. Contact Terratern today for top advice on winning your medical employment in Australia.

Get all the details on Australia PR with this visa checklist

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Frequently Asked Questions

What are the highest-paying medical specialities in Australia?

In Australia, some of the highest-paying medical specialities include orthopaedic surgery, cardiology, dermatology, radiology, and gastroenterology. Orthopaedic surgeons earn significantly due to the specialised nature of their field. Cardiologists also earn well, particularly in private practice, due to the high demand for their services. Dermatology is another high-paying field, offering flexibility with a focus on diagnosing and treating skin conditions. Radiologists, particularly those working privately, are among the top earners, while gastroenterologists enjoy high compensation due to the specialised nature of their work in the digestive system.

How long does it take to get registered as a doctor in Australia?

The time it takes to get registered as a doctor in Australia can vary based on whether you are an Australian graduate or an international medical graduate (IMG). Australian graduates typically complete 1-2 years of supervised practice, including internship and residency, before receiving full registration. For IMGs, the process is more intricate and can take anywhere from 6 months to several years. It involves credential verification, exams, and completing either supervised practice or an internship, depending on the chosen pathway.

Are there any age restrictions for doctors working in Australia?

Australia does not have age restrictions for doctors seeking to work in the country. However, doctors must meet specific health and fitness standards, and work visas will be assessed based on their ability to perform their duties. Although there is no age limit for working as a doctor, older doctors may face challenges in securing roles based on factors like healthcare institution policies or the nature of the job.

Can I practice medicine in Australia with a foreign medical degree?

Yes, foreign-trained doctors can practice medicine in Australia, but they must meet certain requirements. These include credential verification by the Australian Medical Council (AMC), passing the AMC exams, and potentially completing a period of supervised practice or internship within Australia. Additionally, international doctors must meet visa requirements to work legally in the country. The process can vary depending on the applicant's specific circumstances, and it can take several months to a few years to complete.

What are the working hours like for doctor jobs in Australia?

The working hours for doctor jobs in Australia vary by speciality and work environment. Hospital doctors often work long shifts, including nights and weekends, especially in fields like emergency medicine and surgery. A typical shift is around 8-12 hours, with some roles requiring on-call duties. General practitioners (GPs) usually have more regular hours, typically 9 AM to 5 PM, Monday to Friday, although many offer evening or weekend appointments. Specialists, particularly those in private practice, have more flexibility in setting their working hours, and they often work part-time or full-time, depending on their preferences. Generally, Australia's healthcare system offers good work-life balance options for doctors.