Doctors in South Australia’s public health system have voted to approve a new enterprise agreement with the South Australian Government.
The agreement for Salaried Medical Officers delivers a real wage increase above current inflation, as well as substantial additional support to junior doctors and those practicing in rural areas.
The agreement includes:
- A total wage rise of 13%, including increases of 3.5% backdated to April 2025, 3.25% in April 2026, 3.25% in April 2027, and 3% in April 2028;
- A $4,050 base wage increase for trainee medical officers and senior registrars;
- Incentives of up to $39,493 to attract and retain doctors in regional areas;
- An increase in professional development payments for junior doctors in accredited training programs from $8,500 to $10,000, to ensure they can maintain high levels of clinical practice;
- Minimum 10-hour breaks between shifts to help doctors get more time to rest and recharge;
- Formal recognition of Rural Generalists and a boost in their attraction and retention allowances, recognising that their diverse skillsets are essential to meet the wide ranging and often complex health needs in rural and remote communities.
“The doctors in our public health system work exceptionally hard to care for South Australians and they deserve this fair and reasonable pay rise,” said SA Premier, Peter Malinauskas.
“Not only does it deliver a real wage rise, it delivers a significant boost for junior doctors to recognise the importance of the work they do, and ensure their pay is nationally competitive.
“I want to thank SASMOA for working constructively with the government to deliver an outcome which is in the interest of doctors and their patients.”
The ballot of employees closed at 5pm Sunday, with 72% of those voting supporting the new agreement.
The ballot followed extensive negotiations between the State Government and the SA Salaried Medical Officers Association (SASMOA).
“Our doctors deserve fair and reasonable wages for the hard work they put in every day caring for South Australians,” said Health Minister, Chris Picton.
“The Malinauskas Government recognises that hard work and has put forward a new agreement, backed by SASMOA, that delivers fair and reasonable pay rises for our salaried medical officers.
“This agreement will also provide additional pay rises for junior doctors and senior registrars, greater certainty around working hours and employment conditions, and new incentives to attract and retain more doctors in our regions.”
The agreement will be lodged with the South Australian Employment Tribunal for approval.
