GP Earnings

How much will I earn as a GP in Australia?

GPs who move from the UK to Australia can expect higher earnings. On average, GPs earn around $250k–350k per year, with the potential to earn even more as they gain more patients. In rural areas, GPs with emergency and procedural skills may earn up to $600k. There are additional incentives for GPs working in these areas.

Australian GPs are typically self-employed or Independent Medical Practitioners (IMP's) and make money by charging patients, insurance companies, or Medicare. Instead of a fixed salary, they usually agree on a percentage of the earnings, ranging from 50% for supervised doctors to 70% for fully registered GPs.

When it comes to finding the best financial deal, it's not just about going for the option with the highest percentage. Your potential earnings are influenced by various factors, such as... (and more).

• How many patients you see per hour and how busy the practice is.

• Whether the practice is bulk, private or mixed billing.

• Whether you work evenings or weekends.

• Whether you can participate in any in-house clinics or carry out minor procedures or use any special interests you have. Minor surgeries, aesthetics, or skin work may also increase your billings.

Other things to consider:

• A higher percentage doesn't always mean you make more money. You also have to consider the total amount of billings.

• Some practices with lower percentages provide more nursing and allied health support. This means you can see more patients and maximize your earnings. As a result, your overall income will be higher.

• Some companies provide a lower percentage but a substantial initial payment to help with relocation and adjusting. Many doctors who agree to contracts of 2 or 3 years find this choice attractive.

• Individual practices can offer a wide range of services to patients, which helps them maximize their revenue without overcharging. This allows doctors to add value to each patient visit and earn more money per patient than they would with just a regular consultation fee.

What is Bulk Billing?

Bulk Billing is when the patient does not pay for the consult. The practice charges Medicare directly. This is the minimum consult charge, and it is currently $36.30. Bulk Billing is usually standard for Concession Card Holders, minors, and pensioners. In contrast, a non-bulk bill paying patient will pay a higher rate for their consultation as determined by the practice. The average rate is presently around $60, and private patients can then make a claim from Medicare themselves and receive a partial reimbursement of $36.30.

Federal Government Incentives

The Workforce Incentive Program Doctor Stream allocates payments to GP´s based on how long they serve in rural and remote areas. They must complete active quarters in specific categories of qualifying locations, which have different time requirements. The maximum payment is $47,000.