GP Salary Guide Australia in 2025
28/02/2025
Finding the right general practitioner (GP) job in Australia is a significant step in your career. Whether you’re a newly qualified GP or an experienced doctor seeking a change, evaluating potential opportunities thoroughly can help you find a role that meets your financial, professional, and personal needs. Here’s a breakdown of key factors to consider when searching for a new GP job in Australia.
Salary Expectations
One of the first things to consider is how much you can earn in a new GP position. In Australia, most GPs are independent contractors paid a percentage of the patient fees they generate (usually Medicare rebates plus any patient gap fees) rather than receiving a fixed salary. Common payment structures include:
- Percentage of billings – Typically, GPs receive around 60-70% of their billings, with the rest going to the practice.
- Fixed salary – Some jobs, particularly in rural areas, offer an annual salary or hourly rate for stability.
- Partnership/Ownership – Practice owners may take home higher earnings but also manage business expenses.
How Much Can You Expect to Earn?
GP income varies based on location, patient demand, and practice type:
- Metropolitan areas: GP earnings range from $150,000–$300,000 annually.
- Rural/Regional areas: Earnings can be $200,000–$400,000+ due to higher patient demand and government incentives.
- Billing percentage vs. patient volume: A busy clinic with lower billings (e.g., 60%) may be more profitable than a quiet clinic with higher billings (e.g., 70%).
- Additional earnings: GPs can boost income by offering procedures like skin cancer removals, women’s health services, or extended hours.
When comparing job offers, ask about the practice’s patient volume, initial guaranteed salary (if any), and billing arrangements.
Work-Life Balance
A great GP job should allow you to maintain a healthy work-life balance. Factors to consider include:
Scheduling Flexibility
- Full-time or part-time options: Many GPs in Australia choose flexible work arrangements.
- Clinic hours: Standard hours are usually 8 AM–5 PM, but some clinics offer evening or weekend shifts.
- On-call requirements: Metropolitan clinics rarely require after-hours on-call work, whereas rural GPs may cover emergency shifts.
Practice Setting
- Bulk-billing clinics: Typically have shorter appointments (10 minutes), high patient turnover, and weekend work.
- Mixed/private billing clinics: Allow longer appointments (15–20 minutes), creating a less rushed work environment.
Supportive Workplace Culture
- Larger practices may offer more flexibility for leave or shorter shifts.
- Good administrative support (e.g., nurses, receptionists) helps reduce paperwork and stress.
Before accepting a job, ask about expected work hours, appointment lengths, and any additional responsibilities.
Career Progression
Beyond day-to-day responsibilities, think about how the job aligns with your long-term career goals.
Special Interests and Training
Many Australian GPs develop special interests, such as:
- Skin cancer medicine
- Women’s health
- Mental health
- Occupational medicine
Some clinics actively support additional training by funding courses or providing necessary equipment (e.g., dermatoscopes for skin checks). Ask potential employers if they encourage subspecialty development.
Pathways to Senior Roles
- Leadership roles: Senior GP, Medical Director, or mentoring junior doctors.
- Practice ownership: Some clinics offer partnership opportunities after a probationary period.
- Teaching & research: Becoming a GP trainer or participating in research projects can diversify your career.
Conclusion
Choosing the right GP job involves balancing salary, work-life balance, and career growth. Before signing a contract, clarify billing structures, scheduling expectations, and long-term opportunities. Stay tuned for Part 2, where we’ll explore visa sponsorship for international doctors and other key job considerations.
