Speech Pathologist Salary Australia: What the Data Shows
If you are researching a speech pathologist salary in Australia, the most authoritative sources are the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) and the Fair Work Ombudsman. However, the ABS does not publish a median weekly earnings figure for speech pathologists at the detailed occupation level (ANZSCO 252712). The Jobs and Skills Australia occupation profile for speech pathologists lists median weekly earnings as 'N/A', meaning the data is not available due to sample size or reliability concerns.
National Full-Time Average as a Benchmark
While a specific speech pathologist median is missing, the national full-time adult average weekly ordinary time earnings provide a useful reference. According to the ABS Average Weekly Earnings survey for May 2026, the figure is $2,083.70 per week, or about $108,352 per year when multiplied by 52. This is the 'line' used on this site. For comparison, the full-time median (all occupations) is about $90,532 per year, and the all-employees median is about $74,100 (ABS Employee Earnings, August 2025).
Speech pathologists are a predominantly female profession (97% female) with a median age of 33 years, compared to 40 years for all occupations. Only 56% work full-time hours, below the national average of 64%. For those working full-time, the average hours are 40 per week, slightly less than the all-occupations average of 44 hours. These factors influence overall earnings, as part-time work reduces annual income.
Award Minimums and Pay Structure
Speech pathologists are covered by the Health Professionals and Support Services Award (MA000027). The Fair Work Ombudsman's pay guide, effective from 1 October 2026, provides minimum rates for support services employees, but professional health professionals have their own classification structure. The award includes levels from 1 to 9, with pay points within each level. For example, a Level 9 pay point 3 support services employee earns $1,497.80 per week, or $39.42 per hour. Speech pathologists are typically classified at higher professional levels, with rates above these support services minimums.
The national minimum wage from 1 July 2026 is $26.44 per hour, $1,004.90 per week, or $52,255 per year on a 38-hour week. Award minimums rose by 4.75% in the latest adjustment.
State and Territory Comparisons
Earnings for speech pathologists vary by location, though no state-specific median is published. The national full-time averages by state (ABS Average Weekly Earnings, May 2026) are:
- New South Wales: $109,658 per year
- Victoria: $106,137
- Queensland: $106,064
- South Australia: $102,450
- Western Australia: $115,825
- Tasmania: $96,008
- Northern Territory: $103,173
- Australian Capital Territory: $119,090
These figures reflect all occupations, not speech pathologists specifically, but they indicate where pay tends to be higher (ACT, WA) or lower (Tasmania). Place a salary on the line to see how a given amount compares to these averages.
Gender Pay Gap Considerations
With 97% of speech pathologists being female, the gender pay gap is relevant. The ABS reports women's full-time average ordinary time earnings at $1,934.50 per week ($100,594 per year), compared to men's $2,181.50 per week ($113,412 per year). This gap persists across most occupations and is influenced by factors such as industry, experience, and hours worked. Speech pathologists working in public health settings may have different pay scales than those in private practice.
How to Use This Information
If you are evaluating a specific salary offer or planning your career, consider the award classification, years of experience, and location. The Job medians page lists medians for many occupations, but speech pathologists are not included due to data limitations. For a personalised comparison, use the States and territories page to see how local averages stack up.
Summary
While a precise speech pathologist salary Australia figure is not published by the ABS, the national full-time average of $108,352 per year and award minimums provide context. The occupation's high proportion of part-time workers and female workforce means actual earnings may differ. For the most current award rates, consult the Fair Work Ombudsman's Pay and Conditions Tool.