Information on remuneration

Working hours

Generally speaking, shifts go from 10-12 hours - for an average of 80-100 hours per fortnight. Shifts will fit around outpatient clinics, and theatre lists. Consultants generally do not work nights, however can be expected to participate on an on-call roster for response to major cases, or support to junior staff on nights.

There is usually a designated ‘non-clinical’ day per week allocated for education, research, auditing, rostering, or administrative duties.

Income

The salary of a consultant anaesthetist varies from state to state, but the average salary package for a Staff Specialist is above $200,000 per annum, and above $300,000 for a Visiting Medical Officer.

• When you work on weekends, public holidays or after ‘normal’ hours, you are entitled to penalty rates. This means that you will receive anything between 112% and 250% of your normal hourly rate.
• Overtime is generally paid when you work hours in addition to your scheduled hours, or if you are called in after hours. The actual rate can range from 1.5 to double your normal pay rate.
• In Australia, your employer is required to contribute at least 9% of your base salary to a superannuation fund, which you can access once you retire (after the age of 65). Some, but not many, employers elect to pay more. If you not intending to remain in Australia, you can generally access the funds once you leave the country permanently.
• You may be eligible a range of additional entitlements, such as a vehicle, mobile phone, study allowance, and more.
• You will be entitled to at least 4 weeks paid annual leave, as well as 10 days sick leave. You may also be entitled to access maternity leave, personal carers leave, long service leave, study leave, and conference leave.
• We recommend that you refer to the Australian Tax Office website to familiarise yourself with our tax system.
• Some employers offer salary packaging, a type of system whereby you can (legally) pay some of your personal expenses from pre-tax income to reduce your taxable income.