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Pharmacist Salary in Melbourne

Healthcare

Pharmacists dispense medications, provide drug information, and advise on safe medication use.

Average Salary
$99,750
per year
Take-Home Pay
$76,045
after tax (no HECS)
Salary Range
$74-137k
$100K
$74K$137K

Job Market Outlook

Medium AI Risk

Mixed work with some tasks that AI can assist or automate

In Demand

More jobs than qualified candidates in Australia

+8% growth

Moderate projected employment growth over 5 years

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

Pharmacist Take-Home Pay Breakdown in Melbourne

Based on the average Pharmacist salary of $99,750 in Melbourne, here's what you can expect to take home after tax, Medicare levy, and superannuation.

ComponentWithout HECSWith HECS
Gross Salary$99,750$99,750
Income Tax-$20,713-$20,713
Medicare Levy (2%)-$1,995-$1,995
HELP/HECS Repayment$0-$3,990
Superannuation (11%)+$10,973+$10,973
Annual Take-Home$76,045$72,055
Monthly Take-Home$6,337$6,005
Fortnightly Take-Home$2,925$2,771

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
$100,000
Take-home$76,045
Tax-$20,713
Super+$10,973

How to Become a Pharmacist

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

Qualifications Required

Essential Requirements
  • Bachelor's or Master's degree in Pharmacy from an accredited university
  • Registration with the Pharmacy Board of Australia (AHPRA)
  • Completion of supervised practice (intern year)
Preferred Qualifications
  • Postgraduate qualifications in clinical pharmacy
  • Hospital pharmacy experience
  • Research experience
Relevant Certifications
Accredited Pharmacist (for medication reviews)Immunisation pharmacist certificationBoard certification in specialty areas

Career Progression

Salary Growth Trajectory
$60KEntry$100KMid$120KSenior$150KLead
Entry Level

Intern Pharmacist

$59,850
estimated in Melbourne
0-1 years
Mid Level

Pharmacist

$99,750
estimated in Melbourne
1-5 years
Senior Level

Senior / Clinical Pharmacist

$119,700
estimated in Melbourne
5-10 years
Leadership

Pharmacy Manager / Owner

$149,625
estimated in Melbourne
10+ years

Skills in Demand

Clinical medication reviewsVaccination servicesChronic disease managementCompoundingDigital health and telepharmacy

Tips for Breaking In

  1. 1Consider hospital internships for clinical experience
  2. 2Rural and regional areas offer higher salaries and ownership opportunities
  3. 3Get accredited for medication reviews and vaccinations
  4. 4Pharmacy ownership remains a viable path to higher earnings
  5. 5Stay updated with expanding scope of practice opportunities

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

Pharmacist Hourly Rate in Melbourne

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

Entry Level
$37/hr
Average
$50/hr
Senior
$69/hr

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a Pharmacist earn in Melbourne?

The average Pharmacist salary in Melbourne is $99,750 per year, or approximately $50 per hour. Salaries range from $73,500 to $136,500 depending on experience.

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

A Pharmacist earning $99,750 in Melbourne takes home approximately $76,045 per year after tax, or $6,337 per month. With a HECS debt, take-home drops to $72,055 per year.

How much do Pharmacists make per hour in Melbourne?

Pharmacists in Melbourne earn approximately $50 per hour on average, based on a 38-hour work week. Entry-level rates start around $37/hour, while senior professionals can earn up to $69/hour.

Is Melbourne a good place to work as a Pharmacist?

Melbourne offers Pharmacist salaries among the highest in Australia at $99,750. The city has a cost of living index of 95 (Sydney = 100), meaning living costs are lower than Sydney.

About Pharmacist Salaries in Melbourne

The average Pharmacist in Melbourne, Victoria earns $99,750 per year, or approximately $50 per hour. Salaries typically range from $73,500 for entry-level positions to $136,500 for senior roles with extensive experience.

After income tax, Medicare levy, and other deductions, a Pharmacist earning the average salary in Melbourne can expect to take home approximately $76,045 per year, or $6,337 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 Pharmacist Salaries

  • Experience Level: Entry-level positions start around $73,500, while senior roles can reach $136,500.
  • Industry: Different industries offer varying compensation for Pharmacist 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, Pharmacists earn $$37-$69 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.