Psychology Salary in Australia: Minimum Wage, Award Rates and Median Earnings

Understanding the Psychology Salary in Australia

When researching a psychology salary in Australia, it is important to distinguish between the legal minimum pay floor, award rates, survey averages, and individually negotiated salaries. Each serves a different purpose, and knowing which applies to your situation helps you make informed decisions.

The Legal Minimum: National Minimum Wage

The Fair Work Commission sets the national minimum wage each year. From 1 July 2026, the national minimum wage is $26.44 per hour or $1,004.90 per week for a full-time employee working 38 ordinary hours. This rate applies to employees not covered by a modern award or registered agreement. However, most psychologists are covered by an award, so this rate is rarely the actual pay floor for the profession.

Award Rates Under the Health Professionals and Support Services Award 2020

Psychologists are typically classified under the Health Professionals and Support Services Award 2020 (MA000027). This award sets minimum pay rates that are higher than the national minimum wage. The rate depends on the employee's qualification level (AQF level) and years of experience. For example:

• Level 1, AQF Level 5, 1st year: $32.44 per hour ($1,232.70 per week)
• Level 1, AQF Level 5, 7th year+: $40.56 per hour ($1,541.30 per week)
• Level 1, AQF Level 6, 7th year+: $43.67 per hour ($1,659.30 per week)
• Level 2.1: $1,945.40 per week (hourly rate not specified in the award snippet)

These rates are the minimum that must be paid under the award. An employer and employee can agree to a higher rate, but not lower. The award also includes provisions for juniors, apprentices, and casual loading (typically 25% on top of the minimum hourly rate).

Survey Averages: What Psychologists Actually Earn

The Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) provides median earnings data for occupations. For psychologists and psychotherapists, the median full-time weekly earnings are $2,204 (before tax), and the median hourly earnings are $60. This is based on the Survey of Employee Earnings and Hours, May 2025. Note that this figure excludes managers and part-time employees, so it reflects experienced full-time professionals. About half of psychologists work part-time, which can lower average weekly earnings.

Negotiated Salaries and Enterprise Agreements

Some psychologists, especially those in private practice or senior roles, earn above the award rate through individual contracts or enterprise agreements. These negotiated salaries can be significantly higher than the award minimum, but they must still meet or exceed the award rate. Enterprise agreements are registered with the Fair Work Commission and can set different pay structures, but they cannot undercut the award.

Superannuation: An Employer Payment on Top

Employers must pay superannuation guarantee contributions on top of an employee's ordinary time earnings. From 1 July 2026, the super guarantee rate is 12%. For a psychologist earning the award minimum of $1,232.70 per week, the employer would add an extra $147.92 per week into super. This is not deducted from the employee's pay; it is an additional cost to the employer.

Tax and Medicare

Salary figures are typically quoted before tax. For the 2026-27 tax year, resident tax rates apply with the full tax-free threshold. Medicare levy of 2% applies once annualised ordinary gross income exceeds $30,000. The examples on this site use a simplified tax model that excludes the low income tax offset, HELP repayments, salary sacrifice, and the Medicare levy surcharge. Always consult the Australian Taxation Office for your personal situation.

Which Pay Floor Applies to You?

To determine your correct minimum wage, first check if you are covered by a modern award. The Which minimum wage applies guide can help. If you are award-covered, your minimum is the award rate. If not, the national minimum wage applies. Award-free juniors, apprentices, and employees with disability may have different rates. See the Rate tables for detailed breakdowns.

Key Takeaways

• The national minimum wage is $26.44/h, but psychologists under the Health Professionals Award earn at least $32.44/h.
• The median full-time psychologist earns $2,204 per week, well above the award minimum.
• Superannuation of 12% is paid on top of ordinary time earnings.
• Award rates increase with qualifications and experience.
• Always verify your specific award classification and any applicable enterprise agreement.

For the published floors, see the rate tables and how the figures work.