Speech Pathologist Salary Information Australia 2022
Considering a career in Speech Pathology? Along with doing your research into what is involved in Speech Therapy and how to become a qualified Speech Pathologist in Australia, you may be curious to know the current Speech Pathologist Salary Information for Queensland.
At SpeechEase Speech Therapy, we have three Speech Pathology clinics across Queensland, with team members at all levels of experience. From new graduates and early career speechies through to senior and clinical lead speech pathologists, we have them all!
In this article, we’re going to share the most current, up-to-date Speech Pathologist Salary Information for Queensland practitioners. We’ll also explain the different levels of Health Professionals and what this might look like for you as you progress through your Speech Pathology career.
Speech Pathology Salary Information Queensland 2022
Below is a table from the Queensland Government website breaking down the different levels and base salary standards for each level of experience for Health Professionals.
A new graduate starts at level 1.3 (after completing a bachelor’s degree) or level 1.4 (if a master’s degree). Then they go up a pay point every year until they get to the end of level 3.5.
Today we’ll be focusing on levels 1-3 from the table, however there are more levels that you can explore over on the Queensland Government website.
Health Professionals and Support Services Award Rate 2022
Health Professional 1 (HP1):
This is the entry level for new graduates who meet the requirements to practice as a health professional (in accordance with their professional association’s rules and eligibility for membership of their professional association) or such qualification as deemed acceptable by the employer.
“New Graduate” is defined by Speech Pathology Australia as a Speech Pathologist in their first 12 months of work after graduation.
“Early Career” is defined by Speech Pathology Australia as a Speech Pathologist in their first 3 years of work after graduation.
For new graduates with a Bachelor in Speech Pathology you can expect the award rate of HP1.3 ($26.93/hour) as your starting salary. For new graduates with a Masters in Speech Pathology you can expect the award rate of HP1.4 ($27.86/hour) as your starting salary.
However, it is important to note that many private practices and other workplaces offer salaries above this award rate. SpeechEase is one of them!
Health Professional 2 (HP2):
The next level up (HP2) indicates that the Health Professional works independently and is required to exercise independent judgement on routine matters. They may require more professional supervision from more senior members of the profession or health team when performing novel, complex, or critical tasks.
They have demonstrated a commitment to continuing professional development and may have contributed to workplace education through leading seminars, lectures, or in-services. At this level the health professional may be required to contribute to the supervision of discipline specific students on placement and new graduates or early career therapists. The hourly rate for a Health Professional at Level 2, pay point 1 is $31.60.
Health Professional 3 (HP3):
For Speech Pathologists who reach this level, their title / responsibilities generally take a shift towards clinical leadership. They’ll be a senior Speech Pathologist and have more opportunities to provide leadership and mentoring to fellow team members. Their hourly rate at Level 3, pay point level 1 is $36.88.
A health professional at level three is expected to be experienced and able to independently apply professional knowledge and judgement when performing novel, complex, or critical tasks specific to their discipline. At this level, health professionals will have additional responsibilities.
An employee at this level:
- Works in an area that requires high levels of specialist knowledge and skill as recognised by the employer.
- Is actively contributing to the development of professional knowledge and skills in their field of work as demonstrated by positive impacts on service delivery, positive referral patterns to area of expertise and quantifiable/measurable improvements in health outcomes.
- May be accountable for allocation and/or expenditure of resources and ensuring targets are met and is responsible for ensuring optimal budget outcomes for their customers and communities.
- May be responsible for providing regular feedback and appraisals for senior staff to improve health outcomes for customers and for maintaining a performance management system; and
- Is responsible for providing support for the efficient, cost effective and timely delivery of services.
Do Speech Therapists Get Paid Well?
Speech Pathology is a field that offers a variety of workplace settings and opportunities for professionals. Many workplaces offer Speech Pathologists competitive salaries and packages above the standard award rate. In Queensland, the average Speech Pathologist salary is between $70-95,000 per year according to Seek. Overall, Speech Pathology is considered a career with positive financial prospects.
Is Speech Pathology a Good Career?
Speech Pathology is a highly rewarding career; allowing you to work with people one-on-one and in groups to achieve communication goals and improve the quality of life of your clients. There’s always plenty to learn and professional development and growth is a priority. You’ll be supported in reaching your full potential as a Speech Pathologist in Queensland.
Are you considering a Career in Speech Pathology? At SpeechEase we offer our Speech Pathologists above award wages, a $10,000 professional development package and regular clinical and professional supervision. To learn more about what it’s like working at SpeechEase head on over to our Careers page.
