Australia remains one of the top destinations for medical graduates due to its structured training programs, transparent pay scales, and strong employment benefits. In 2026, junior doctors can expect competitive salaries, generous leave entitlements, and extra earnings from overtime and penalty rates, making it both a respected and financially rewarding career.
Who is a Junior Doctor in Australia?
Junior doctors typically include:
- Interns (PGY1) – first year after graduating from medical school
- Resident Medical Officers (PGY2–PGY3+) – early postgraduate doctors
- Employed primarily in public hospitals under state-based agreements
Pay is regulated and transparent, with incremental increases as doctors gain experience. This makes it a rewarding profession for those who become doctors in Australia.
Junior Doctor Salaries (2026)
Salaries vary depending on experience and state, but approximate ranges are:
- Interns (PGY1): AUD 65,000 – 88,000 per year
- Resident Medical Officers (PGY2): AUD 75,000 – 105,000 per year
- Senior Residents (PGY3+): AUD 80,000 – 110,000+ per year
Additional income can come from:
- Overtime, night shifts, weekends, and public holidays, which can add 15–70%+ on top of base pay
- Rural or regional incentives in certain states
- Relocation or training allowances for some programs
Salaries also differ by state due to enterprise agreements, superannuation contributions, and cost-of-living adjustments. For those exploring opportunities, platforms like Jobslly can help healthcare professionals find suitable hospital and clinic openings in Australia.
State-Wise Junior Doctor Salaries
Salaries for junior doctors also vary by state and territory, reflecting different enterprise agreements, superannuation contributions, and cost-of-living adjustments:
- New South Wales (NSW): PGY1 interns start around AUD 76,000, rising with experience.
- Victoria (VIC): Slightly higher starting salaries at AUD 80,000+, increasing through residency.
- Queensland (QLD): PGY1 pay is around AUD 85,000+, with higher super contributions.
- Western Australia (WA): Starts at AUD 86,000+, with strong overall packages.
- Australian Capital Territory (ACT): Among the highest, starting at AUD 88,000+.
- South Australia (SA), Tasmania (TAS), Northern Territory (NT): Slightly lower starting salaries, ranging from AUD 75,000 – 83,000, with growth through experience and incentives.
Benefits & Allowances
Junior doctors enjoy several non-salary benefits, including:
- Paid annual leave (4–5 weeks) and sick leave (~10 days)
- Paid public holidays
- Superannuation contributions (~11–12.75%)
- Study and professional leave for training and conferences
- Rural or regional incentives, including relocation assistance and one-off payments
These benefits make the total compensation package substantially higher than base salary alone.
How to Become a Junior Doctor in Australia – Quick Overview
To start practicing and earning as a junior doctor:
- Complete a Medical Degree – 5–6 years undergraduate or 4-year graduate program
- Pass Entrance Exams – UCAT for undergraduates, GAMSAT for graduates
- Finish Internship & Residency – PGY1 (internship) followed by PGY2+ (residency)
- Register with AHPRA – mandatory for all doctors
- Specialist Training (Optional) – fellowships last 3–7 years for those pursuing specialty careers
- Pathways for International Medical Graduates (IMGs):
- AMC Standard Pathway: Qualification verification, exams, supervised practice
- Competent Authority Pathway: Direct recognition for doctors from certain countries
- Specialist Recognition Pathway: For IMGs aiming for specialist training
- AMC Standard Pathway: Qualification verification, exams, supervised practice
Why Australia is Attractive for Junior Doctors
- Competitive salaries with potential for significant extra earnings
- Strong benefits, including superannuation, leave, and study allowances
- Career growth with structured training and specialist pathways
- Work-life balance supported through rosters, leave, and professional development
- Rural and GP incentives to boost earnings and experience
Conclusion
Australia offers competitive salaries, strong benefits, and structured career pathways for junior doctors. While pay varies by experience, location, and hours worked, the combination of base salary, overtime, and incentives makes it a highly rewarding destination for medical professionals. Whether you are an Australian graduate or an international medical graduate, understanding the pathway, earnings, and benefits can help you plan a successful medical career.
