Optometrist vs Veterinarian salary
In Australia, a optometrist earns about 18% more than a veterinarian — $219,295 vs $185,290 per year.
Showing amounts in USD (USD default; source data is AUD). FX as of Mon, 13 Jul 2026 00:02:31 +0000. Convert currencies
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Healthcare
Optometrist$219,295/yr
- Monthly
- $18,251
- Hourly
- $105
- Range
- $160,099–$291,676
- 10-yr outlook
- +9%
Pay range, side by side
| Percentile | Optometrist | Veterinarian |
|---|---|---|
| Entry (10th) | $160,099 | $130,258 |
| 25th | $189,662 | $157,809 |
| Median | $219,295 | $185,290 |
| 75th | $255,451 | $218,948 |
| Senior (90th) | $291,676 | $252,536 |
National Australia figures in AUD. Individual pay varies with experience, employer, and location.
More Healthcare comparisons
Frequently asked questions
- Does a optometrist or veterinarian earn more in Australia?
- A optometrist earns more, at about $316,000 per year vs $267,000 for a veterinarian — roughly 18% ($49,000) more.
- What is the salary range for these roles in Australia?
- A optometrist typically earns $230,700–$420,300, while a veterinarian earns $187,700–$363,900 per year.
- How much do these jobs pay per month in Australia?
- On a monthly basis before tax, a optometrist averages about $26,300 and a veterinarian about $22,300.
- How do entry-level salaries compare?
- At the 10th percentile in Australia, a optometrist earns about $230,700 while a veterinarian earns about $187,700 per year.
- How do senior-level salaries compare?
- At the 90th percentile in Australia, a optometrist earns about $420,300 while a veterinarian earns about $363,900 per year.
- Are optometrist and veterinarian similar careers?
- Both roles sit in the Healthcare category on Pay by Role, which is why we compare them head-to-head. Day-to-day work still differs — review each job page for skills and outlook.