Veterinarian salary in Australia: the Animal Care and Veterinary Services Award minimum for every level from 1 July 2026, what each level covers, casual rates, what veterinarians actually earn according to the ATO, and take-home pay in 2026–27.
A veterinarian earns at least $34.20 an hour ($67,582 a year) at Level 1A, up to $48.38 ($95,593) at Level 4. The ATO median for veterinarians was $96,288 in 2023-24.
Veterinary surgeons in private practice are covered by the Animal Care and Veterinary Services Award, which sets annual minimum salaries from Level 1A (new graduate) to Level 4 (senior vet). Most vets are paid above these minimums, especially in emergency and specialist hospitals.
Veterinarian award pay rates
| Level and what it covers | Hourly | Casual hourly | Per year | Take-home per fortnight |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Level 1A Graduate veterinary surgeon, under supervision; moves to 1B within 6 months | $34.20 | $42.75 | $67,582 | $2,132 |
| Level 1B Still needs some supervision; usually moves to Level 2 within 2 years | $36.08 | $45.10 | $71,300 | $2,229 |
| Level 2 Works without detailed supervision, with guidance on unusual cases | $38.98 | $48.73 | $77,032 | $2,379 |
| Level 3 Experienced vet handling more difficult work | $42.83 | $53.54 | $84,628 | $2,578 |
| Level 4 Senior vet with considerable independence; may supervise staff or run a branch | $48.38 | $60.48 | $95,593 | $2,865 |
Annual minimum salaries from the award; hourly rate as published. Casual rates include the 25% loading. Take-home pay is after income tax and the Medicare levy for a full year in 2026–27.
What veterinarians actually earn
| Occupation (ATO) | People | Median salary or wage | Average salary or wage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Veterinarian | 12,335 | $96,288 | $99,381 |
ATO Taxation Statistics 2023-24, Table 15A. Includes part-time workers and overtime.
Vets must be registered with the veterinary board in their state or territory. Emergency, after-hours and rural roles often pay well above the award.
See also vet nurse salary, salary after tax.
Common questions
How much does a veterinarian earn in Australia?
The award minimum runs from $34.20 an hour ($67,582 a year full time) at Level 1A to $48.38 ($95,593) at Level 4, from 1 July 2026. The ATO median salary or wage for veterinarians was $96,288 in 2023-24, including part-timers.
What is the casual rate for a veterinarian?
$42.75 to $60.48 an hour under the award, including the 25% casual loading.
Which award covers veterinarians?
The Animal Care and Veterinary Services Award [MA000118]. Vets must be registered with the veterinary board in their state or territory. Emergency, after-hours and rural roles often pay well above the award.
When do award rates go up?
Each year from the first full pay period on or after 1 July, after the Fair Work Commission's Annual Wage Review.
Sources: Fair Work Ombudsman pay guide and award text (Schedule A), Animal Care and Veterinary Services Award [MA000118]; ATO Taxation Statistics 2023-24. Checked 2026-10-23. General information only.