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Dentist Salary in Melbourne

Healthcare

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

Average Salary
$157,500
per year
Take-Home Pay
$112,375
after tax (no HECS)
Salary Range
$95-263k
$158K
$95K$263K

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 Melbourne

Based on the average Dentist salary of $157,500 in Melbourne, here's what you can expect to take home after tax, Medicare levy, and superannuation.

ComponentWithout HECSWith HECS
Gross Salary$157,500$157,500
Income Tax-$39,613-$39,613
Medicare Levy (2%)-$3,150-$3,150
HELP/HECS Repayment$0-$9,450
Superannuation (11%)+$17,325+$17,325
Annual Take-Home$112,375$102,925
Monthly Take-Home$9,365$8,577
Fortnightly Take-Home$4,322$3,959

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
$158,000
Take-home$112,375
Tax-$39,613
Super+$17,325

How to Become a Dentist

Everything you need to know about breaking into a career as a Dentist in Victoria.

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
$95KEntry$158KMid$205KSenior$284KLead
Entry Level

Graduate Dentist

$94,500
estimated in Melbourne
0-2 years
Mid Level

Dentist

$157,500
estimated in Melbourne
2-5 years
Senior Level

Senior Dentist

$204,750
estimated in Melbourne
5-10 years
Leadership

Practice Owner / Specialist

$283,500
estimated in Melbourne
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 Melbourne

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

Entry Level
$48/hr
Average
$80/hr
Senior
$133/hr

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a Dentist earn in Melbourne?

The average Dentist salary in Melbourne is $157,500 per year, or approximately $80 per hour. Salaries range from $94,500 to $262,500 depending on experience.

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

A Dentist earning $157,500 in Melbourne takes home approximately $112,375 per year after tax, or $9,365 per month. With a HECS debt, take-home drops to $102,925 per year.

How much do Dentists make per hour in Melbourne?

Dentists in Melbourne earn approximately $80 per hour on average, based on a 38-hour work week. Entry-level rates start around $48/hour, while senior professionals can earn up to $133/hour.

Is Melbourne a good place to work as a Dentist?

Melbourne offers Dentist salaries among the highest in Australia at $157,500. The city has a cost of living index of 95 (Sydney = 100), meaning living costs are lower than Sydney.

About Dentist Salaries in Melbourne

The average Dentist in Melbourne, Victoria earns $157,500 per year, or approximately $80 per hour. Salaries typically range from $94,500 for entry-level positions to $262,500 for senior roles with extensive experience.

After income tax, Medicare levy, and other deductions, a Dentist earning the average salary in Melbourne can expect to take home approximately $112,375 per year, or $9,365 per month.

Melbourne is home to approximately 5.1 million people and has a cost of living index of 95 (where Sydney = 100). This means living costs in Melbourne are lower Sydney.

Key Factors Affecting Dentist Salaries

  • Experience Level: Entry-level positions start around $94,500, while senior roles can reach $262,500.
  • Industry: Different industries offer varying compensation for Dentist roles.
  • Company Size: Larger companies typically offer higher salaries and more benefits.
  • Location: Melbourne's cost of living influences salary expectations.
  • Hourly Rate: Based on a 38-hour week, Dentists earn $$48-$133 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.