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Dentist Salary in Canberra

Healthcare

Dentists diagnose and treat oral health conditions, including teeth, gums, and jaw.

Average Salary
$162,000
per year
Take-Home Pay
$115,052
after tax (no HECS)
Salary Range
$97-270k
$162K
$97K$270K

Job Market Outlook

Low AI Risk

Physical or high-touch work with limited AI automation potential

In Demand

More jobs than qualified candidates in Australia

+12% growth

Moderate projected employment growth over 5 years

Sources: Microsoft Research 2025, Jobs and Skills Australia 2025 Occupation Shortage List

Dentist Take-Home Pay Breakdown in Canberra

Based on the average Dentist salary of $162,000 in Canberra, here's what you can expect to take home after tax, Medicare levy, and superannuation.

ComponentWithout HECSWith HECS
Gross Salary$162,000$162,000
Income Tax-$41,278-$41,278
Medicare Levy (2%)-$3,240-$3,240
HELP/HECS Repayment$0-$9,720
Superannuation (11%)+$17,820+$17,820
Annual Take-Home$115,052$105,332
Monthly Take-Home$9,588$8,778
Fortnightly Take-Home$4,425$4,051

Calculate Your Exact Take-Home Pay

Enter your actual salary to see a personalized breakdown including your specific tax situation, HECS debt, and family status.

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Your salary
$162,000
Take-home$115,052
Tax-$41,278
Super+$17,820

How to Become a Dentist

Everything you need to know about breaking into a career as a Dentist in Australian Capital Territory.

Qualifications Required

Essential Requirements
  • Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS) or Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD)
  • Registration with the Dental Board of Australia (AHPRA)
  • Current radiation license
Preferred Qualifications
  • Specialist qualifications (orthodontics, oral surgery, etc.)
  • Additional training in cosmetic dentistry
  • Business management experience for practice ownership
Relevant Certifications
Specialist registration in dental specialtyInvisalign or similar aligner certificationImplant placement certification

Career Progression

Salary Growth Trajectory
$97KEntry$162KMid$211KSenior$292KLead
Entry Level

Graduate Dentist

$97,200
estimated in Canberra
0-2 years
Mid Level

Dentist

$162,000
estimated in Canberra
2-5 years
Senior Level

Senior Dentist

$210,600
estimated in Canberra
5-10 years
Leadership

Practice Owner / Specialist

$291,600
estimated in Canberra
10+ years

Skills in Demand

Cosmetic dentistryDental implantsDigital dentistry (CAD/CAM)Invisalign and orthodonticsSedation dentistry

Tips for Breaking In

  1. 1Consider rural practice for higher income and faster experience
  2. 2Develop skills in cosmetic procedures for private practice success
  3. 3Build a patient base through excellent service and marketing
  4. 4Practice ownership significantly increases earning potential
  5. 5Specialize in high-demand areas like implants or orthodontics

Career information is general guidance based on industry standards. Requirements may vary by employer and location.

Dentist Hourly Rate in Canberra

Based on a standard 38-hour work week (Australian full-time hours):

Entry Level
$49/hr
Average
$82/hr
Senior
$137/hr

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a Dentist earn in Canberra?

The average Dentist salary in Canberra is $162,000 per year, or approximately $82 per hour. Salaries range from $97,200 to $270,000 depending on experience.

What is the take-home pay for a Dentist in Canberra?

A Dentist earning $162,000 in Canberra takes home approximately $115,052 per year after tax, or $9,588 per month. With a HECS debt, take-home drops to $105,332 per year.

How much do Dentists make per hour in Canberra?

Dentists in Canberra earn approximately $82 per hour on average, based on a 38-hour work week. Entry-level rates start around $49/hour, while senior professionals can earn up to $137/hour.

Is Canberra a good place to work as a Dentist?

Canberra offers Dentist salaries among the highest in Australia at $162,000. The city has a cost of living index of 92 (Sydney = 100), meaning living costs are lower than Sydney.

About Dentist Salaries in Canberra

The average Dentist in Canberra, Australian Capital Territory earns $162,000 per year, or approximately $82 per hour. Salaries typically range from $97,200 for entry-level positions to $270,000 for senior roles with extensive experience.

After income tax, Medicare levy, and other deductions, a Dentist earning the average salary in Canberra can expect to take home approximately $115,052 per year, or $9,588 per month.

Canberra is home to approximately 460,000 people and has a cost of living index of 92 (where Sydney = 100). This means living costs in Canberra are lower Sydney.

Key Factors Affecting Dentist Salaries

  • Experience Level: Entry-level positions start around $97,200, while senior roles can reach $270,000.
  • Industry: Different industries offer varying compensation for Dentist roles.
  • Company Size: Larger companies typically offer higher salaries and more benefits.
  • Location: Canberra's cost of living influences salary expectations.
  • Hourly Rate: Based on a 38-hour week, Dentists earn $$49-$137 per hour.

Salary data is based on industry reports, job postings, and government statistics. Individual salaries may vary based on experience, qualifications, and employer. Tax calculations are estimates for the 2024-25 financial year.