A new enterprise agreement between the Government and doctors in South Australia’s public health system has now come into effect as of this week, after being approved by the South Australian Employment Tribunal.
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.
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 – was secured under the agreement.
The agreement also includes:
- 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 agreement was endorsed by 72 per cent of doctors who took part in a ballot at the end of August, following extensive good faith negotiations between the State Government and the SA Salaried Medical Officers Association (SASMOA).