How much does a psychologist earn?

Ever thought about becoming a psychologist? These experts in human behaviour help patients with challenging circumstances, feelings, behaviours and mental health-related issues, which makes psychology a rewarding profession. There’s another appealing drawcard to this career path, however, and that happens to be its earning potential.

So, how much does a psychologist earn? The answer depends on several factors, with experience, postgraduate qualifications, endorsements and location being primary considerations. In this article, we’ll explore the typical earnings for this profession along with how to become a psychologist in Australia.

How much does a psychologist earn?

A psychologist can work across different industries, areas of practice and locations, with many factors influencing their salary. With a 13.3 per cent projected growth from November 2021 to November 2026, the strong job outlook for registered psychologists means now is a great time to consider becoming a psychologist.

How much do psychologists earn on average?

According to SEEK, the average salary for a psychologist with general registration is between $95,000 to $110,000 a year. However, certain factors can influence salary, including whether or not a professional has been endorsed in a specific practice area. Other factors affecting salary include the type of industry and employer, plus the location or region the psychologist works in, as well as their experience, education and training.

How much do psychologists earn in areas of endorsement?

Typically, a psychologist will have general registration or a specific area of practice endorsement. Depending on experience and qualifications, these are some types of psychologists and their average incomes in Australia.

Clinical psychologists

Clinical psychologists identify, diagnose and treat patients with mild to complex mental health conditions. They might also be involved in research, public policy, teaching and more. SEEK states that these psychologists earn between $115,000 and $120,000 annually.

Forensic psychologists

These professionals combine legal and psychological knowledge to help individuals within the justice system, including family services, child protection and rehabilitation. Current positions on SEEK range between $102,000 and $125,000 salary.

Sports and exercise psychologists

These psychologists focus on sports and exercise-related issues, including stress management, performance enhancement and conflict resolution. Current positions on SEEK range between $90,000 and $105,000 per year.

Educational and developmental psychologists

Although traditionally working with children, parents, carers and teachers, these psychologists sometimes work with adults. They provide treatment and guidance in development, disabilities, learning difficulties and behavioural issues. The current positions advertised on SEEK suggest an annual salary of around $120,000.

How to become a psychologist in Australia

Once you’ve fulfilled all the education requirements for psychology in Australia, you can then qualify to become a psychologist. A registered psychologist must also engage in continuing professional development to retain their registration, as set out by the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (Ahpra). 

If you’re asking the question ‘How much do psychologists earn in Australia?’ then you might be interested to learn about the postgraduate pathways that may put you in a higher earning bracket. The following qualifications in psychology provide a snapshot of the possible education pathways that are available to pursue.

• Taking the first step in your psychology career? Students who meet the relevant entry requirements have the option of applying for University of Technology Sydney’s Graduate Diploma of Psychology. Once complete, students can follow up with the Graduate Diploma in Psychology (Advanced), leading to provisional registration as a psychologist.
• Already working in another industry and want to gain new skills? James Cook University’s Graduate Diploma of Psychology (Bridging) is an option for students looking to enhance their current careers and learn new skills in human behaviour. For example, HR, marketing and consulting professionals who already hold a bachelor’s degree but want to learn more, can apply.
• Hold an undergraduate degree in psychology but want to advance further? Edith Cowan University’s Graduate Diploma of Psychology (Advanced) is an option for those who have completed an APAC-accredited three-year bachelor’s degree with a Major in Psychology in the last 10 years. After graduating, students may apply for provisional registration with the Psychology Board of Australia.

Psychology and postgraduate study: enhancing your earning power

Regardless of your skills and experience, postgraduate study is a stepping stone towards professional advancement, new opportunities and the potential for better earnings.

Postgraduate qualifications build on the skills and knowledge learned during undergraduate studies, including psychology degrees. They also give professionals a chance to earn higher salaries with a specialisation in one of the areas of psychological practice, as demonstrated earlier.

Studying psychology online through one of GlobalHealth Education’s Australian university partners will allow you to study flexibly and conveniently. You won’t have to put your career on hold to pursue new qualifications and improved earning potential.

Unlock a greater earning potential

Hoping to enhance the earning potential in your psychology career? GlobalHealth Education partners with Australian universities to deliver real-world skills for those wanting to move into new professions or enrich their qualifications through online study. Explore our range of psychology courses to kickstart your postgraduate journey.