If you’re considering a career as an optometrist in Australia or are curious about how much professionals in this field earn, understanding the salary landscape is essential. Optometry is a respected healthcare profession with solid earning potential, influenced by factors such as experience, location, and workplace setting. Here’s a comprehensive overview of optometrist pay across Australia in 2025.
Average Salary Range
According to recent data from multiple reputable sources, the average annual salary for optometrists in Australia generally falls between AUD 105,000 and AUD 125,000. Some reports cite an average closer to AUD 120,000 per year, which translates to roughly AUD 61.50 per hour.
However, salary figures can vary depending on the source and the specific region. For example, in Canberra, optometrist salaries range from approximately AUD 95,000 to AUD 115,000 annually, while other regions may offer slightly different pay scales.
Experience Matters: Salary Progression Over Time
Experience is one of the most significant factors impacting optometrist earnings. Entry-level optometrists with less than two years of experience can expect to earn around AUD 112,700 annually. As professionals gain more experience, their salaries typically increase:
| Years of Experience | Average Annual Salary (AUD) | Approximate Increase (%) |
|---|---|---|
| 0–2 Years | 112,700 | — |
| 2–5 Years | 153,700 | +38% |
| 5–10 Years | 218,100 | +42% |
| 10–15 Years | 267,900 | +22% |
| 15–20 Years | 282,500 | +6% |
| 20+ Years | 309,800 | +9% |
This progression highlights the substantial financial benefits of gaining experience and advancing in the profession.
Median and Salary Distribution
The median salary for optometrists in Australia is approximately AUD 218,100, meaning half of the professionals earn less and half earn more than this figure. Salaries can range widely, from a low of about AUD 97,100 to a high of AUD 326,600, depending on factors such as location, skills, and employer.
Regional Variations
Location plays a role in salary differences. Urban centers like Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane may offer competitive salaries due to higher living costs and demand for services. Conversely, regional areas might offer incentives or different pay scales to attract qualified optometrists.
Other Influencing Factors
- Workplace Setting: Salaries may differ between private practices, corporate chains, hospitals, and community health centers.
- Specializations and Skills: Additional certifications or specializations can lead to higher pay.
- Gender and Negotiation: Like many professions, pay disparities can exist, and proactive negotiation can impact earnings.
Optician vs. Optometrist Salaries
It’s worth noting that opticians—professionals who fit and dispense glasses but do not perform eye examinations—typically earn less than optometrists. The average optician salary in Australia is around AUD 165,900 per year, with ranges from AUD 76,000 to AUD 263,900.
Summary
- Average optometrist salary in Australia: AUD 105,000 – 125,000 per year
- Entry-level salary: Around AUD 112,700 per year
- Median salary: Approximately AUD 218,100 per year
- Salary increases significantly with experience, reaching over AUD 300,000 for highly experienced optometrists
- Salaries vary by location, experience, and workplace setting
Optometry remains a rewarding career in Australia, both professionally and financially. Understanding the salary expectations can help aspiring and current optometrists make informed decisions about their career paths, negotiate better pay, and plan for long-term growth.