The average annual salary for a Clinical Psychologist in Australia is $120,253.
The typical starting salary for a clinical psychologist, including neuropsychologists and forensic psychologists, is $92,582 per year. After 5 years, clinical psychologists earn $120,253. Experienced practitioners just below senior executive level make $138,533 annually.
Salaries by Region of Australia, 2024
| State | Lowest | Average | Highest |
|---|---|---|---|
| NSW | $105,553 | $128,653 | $142,133 |
| VIC | $92,946 | $106,523 | $145,902 |
| QLD | $76,747 | $124,435 | $133,901 |
| WA | $95,083 | $121,402 | $132,198 |
| AUS | $92,582 | $120,253 | $138,533 |
Sources: Pay points and structures defined in various state public sector industrial agreements.
New South Wales
In New South Wales, Clinical Psychologists are set apart on the pay scale due to their specialised qualifications. They start on a salary of $105,553, which can rise to $142,133 for senior roles based on years of service.
The salary increases with experience, averaging $128,653 by the fifth year. Senior Clinical Psychologists see their pay start at $134,432, reaching up to $142,133 within three years. Principal Clinical Psychologists have an even higher starting salary of $161,387. These salaries are outlined in the Health and Community Employees Psychologists (State) Award.
Related: Clinical Psychologist Salary in Sydney, NSW
Victoria
The starting salary in Victoria for psychologists is $92,946. The Victorian public sector defines a sequence of grades for psychologists, with only clinical psychologists eligible to move beyond Grade 2 in terms of delivering mental health services.
Salaries increase with experience and grade. By the fifth year, a clinical psychologist can earn an average salary of $106,523, assuming they reach the bottom of Grade 3. This grade requires endorsements in clinical, forensic, or neuropsychology to deliver mental health services.
Annual increments continue for Grade 3 Clinical Psychologists, with salaries peaking at $121,894 in the fourth year. For Grade 4 Psychologists, who may lead units and manage teams, the starting salary is $121,300. This can rise to $145,902 by the fifth year.
The pay scale is detailed in the Medical Scientists, Pharmacists and Psychologists Victorian Public Sector (Single Interest Employers) Enterprise Agreement 2021-2025, approved by the Fair Work Commission.
Related: Clinical Psychologist Salary in Melbourne, VIC
Queensland
In Queensland, the salary range for clinical psychologists starts from $76,747 for Graduate Psychologists, reaching up to $133,901 for experienced Clinical Psychologists. The starting salary is for Health Practitioner Level 3, a common entry point for allied health graduates into the Queensland Health workforce.
By the fifth year of service, a Clinical Psychologist who attains an HP4 classification can expect a mid-career salary of $124,435. For those at the top of the HP4 grade, the salary peaks at $133,901. Opportunities for further advancement exist, with the potential to move into more senior roles up to HP8, often encompassing management responsibilities.
The Health Practitioners and Dental Officers (Queensland Health) Certified Agreement (No. 4) 2022 outlines these pay scales and career progression structures.
Related: Clinical Psychologist Salary in Brisbane, QLD
Western Australia
In Western Australia, the entry-level job of Clinical Psychologist Registrar pays an initial salary of $92,946. Following registration as Clinical Psychologists, their pay in the public sector rises, reaching $121,402 by their fifth year. Senior Clinical Psychologists at Grade 2 can earn up to $132,198.
The WA Health System – HSUWA – PACTS Industrial Agreement 2022, upheld by the Western Australian Industrial Relations Commission, details these salaries. It provides a comprehensive framework for employment conditions, pay scales, and professional development within the WA Health System.