Pay Scale
From $92,946 to $145,902, with an average of $106,523.
Starting salary
The initial salary for a Psychologist in Melbourne, VIC, begins at $92,946 in their first year of service. This is the standard rate in public sector employment according to the relevant enterprise agreement for Victoria.
Mid-career salary
A Psychologist's salary increases progressively, reaching $106,523 at the fifth year of service assuming they reach the bottom of Grade 3. Clinical, forensic, or neuropsychology endorsement are required to deliver mental healh services at Grade 3 or above. Annual increments continue for Grade 3 Clinical Psychologists, peaking at $121,894 in the fourth year.
Senior clinical psychologist salary
For Grade 4 Psychologists, the starting salary is $121,300, rising to $145,902 by the fifth year. At this level, psychologists may lead units and manage teams.
Related: Clinical Psychologist Salary Australia
Enterprise Agreement 2021-2025
Title: Medical Scientists, Pharmacists and Psychologists Victorian Public Sector (Single Interest Employers) Enterprise Agreement 2021-2025
Author: Fair Work Commission
About
The Fair Work Commission approved an enterprise agreement for medical scientists, pharmacists, and psychologists within the Victorian public sector. The agreement, effective from 28 November 2022 until 30 November 2025, sets terms for employment conditions, salaries, and workplace rights.
It covers a wide range of topics, from leave entitlements and job classifications to health and safety measures. The agreement aims to ensure fair work conditions, promote professional development, and enhance the well-being of employees. It serves as a comprehensive guide for both employers and employees in the Victorian public health sector.
Author
The Fair Work Commission is Australia's national workplace relations tribunal. It is responsible for maintaining fair and productive workplace relations. The commission handles disputes, minimum employment conditions, and the approval of enterprise agreements.
Key Takeaways
- The agreement starts on 28 November 2022 and ends on 30 November 2025.
- It applies to medical scientists, pharmacists, and psychologists in the Victorian public sector.
- Includes detailed provisions for leave, including annual, parental, and sick leave.
- Outlines procedures for disputes, performance management, and redundancy.
- Promotes professional development and fair work practices within the health sector.
Table 1. Psychologist Pay Rates
| Grade | Year | 2024 | 2025 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Provisional | 1 | $61,519 | $62,750 |
| 2 | $64,550 | $65,839 | |
| 3 | $68,244 | $69,611 | |
| 4 | $73,478 | $74,949 | |
| 5 | $77,308 | $78,852 | |
| 6 | $80,866 | $82,484 | |
| 7 | $85,166 | $86,867 | |
| 8 | $89,445 | $91,234 | |
| Grade 2 | 1 | $92,946 | $94,803 |
| 2 | $95,716 | $97,631 | |
| 3 | $97,537 | $99,489 | |
| 4 | $105,171 | $107,274 | |
| Grade 3 | 1 | $106,523 | $108,651 |
| 2 | $110,692 | $112,904 | |
| 3 | $114,657 | $116,948 | |
| 4 | $121,894 | $124,331 | |
| Grade 4 | 1 | $121,300 | $123,726 |
| 2 | $124,754 | $127,248 | |
| 3 | $130,514 | $133,123 | |
| 4 | $135,889 | $138,607 | |
| 5 | $145,902 | $148,819 | |
| Grade 5 | 1 | $161,727 | $168,260 |
| Director | 1 | $184,462 | $188,151 |
Date of effect: Annual pay changes take effect on 1 December in the preceding year.
Psychologist classifications in Victorian Health
In the Victorian Health System, psychologists are classified from Grade 1 to Grade 6 based on their qualifications, experience and job roles.
Grade 1 are interns or overseas-trained psychologists with provisional registration. They undertake supervised practice to meet registration requirements. "4+2" interns have a four-year psychology degree and undergo two years of supervised practice. "5+1" interns have a four-year degree plus a one-year master's and complete one year of supervised practice. They must pass the National Psychology Exam to gain general registration and work under the supervision of Grade 3 or higher.
Grade 2 are registered and typically in entry-level positions. They engage in psychological practice but do not provide clinical supervision unless they have a specific endorsement and approval. They receive supervision from Grade 3 or higher.
Grade 3 have at least five years of professional experience as Grade 2 or equivalent. They can supervise provisional psychologists, support clinical education, and contribute to policy evaluation. In mental health services, only those with a clinical, forensic, or neuropsychology endorsement are employed at this level or above.
Grade 4 supervise and train peers across grades and ensure ethical and legal compliance. They lead teams, manage units, and offer secondary consultations. Their role includes staff recruitment, professional development coordination, and providing expert advice. They also handle quality projects, risk management, and some budget responsibilities.
Grade 5 bring over ten years of experience with leadership, specialisation, and extensive professional practice. They engage in management, clinical leadership, or education. Their roles can include heading services or programs, developing clinical policies, and significant contributions to research and professional education. They oversee clinical teaching and professional development, including of interns and registrars.
Directors of Psychology Grade 6 have extensive senior-level experience and are endorsed in a practice area. They lead workforce planning, development, and recruitment for major health services. Their responsibilities include overseeing credentialing, supervision, service planning, and clinical education. They manage budgets and resources, ensuring the provision of services and support for the psychology team and their clients.