How to calculate your take-home pay from an oncologist salary
Based on ATO data, the median taxable income for medical oncologists in 2023–24 was $335,811; take-home pay depends on tax, Medicare, and whether super is included.
Understanding your oncologist salary after tax
If you're a medical oncologist in Australia, your gross income can be substantial, but what actually lands in your bank account depends on income tax, the Medicare levy, and whether superannuation is included in your package. This guide uses the latest publicly available data to help you estimate your take-home pay.
What the data shows
The most recent Australian Taxation Office figures (for 2023–24) show that medical oncologists reported a median taxable income of $335,811 and an average of $366,096. These numbers come from tax returns and include income from both public hospital employment and private practice. The site, which compiles ATO Table 15A data, lists medical oncology as a mixed public-private specialty with a median of $335,811.
It's important to note that these are taxable income figures, not necessarily the salary you see on a contract. They may include bonuses, consulting fees, and other earnings. For a more detailed occupation profile, you can refer to Jobs and Skills Australia, which notes that medical oncologists work an average of 47 hours per week and have a median age of 43.
Estimating your take-home pay
To work out what reaches your bank account, you need to apply the 2026–27 tax rates and the Medicare levy. The on-site Tax and Medicare tool can do this for you, but here's a manual example using the median oncologist income of $335,811.
Income tax calculation (2026–27 resident rates):
- Up to $18,200: nil
- $18,201 to $45,000: 15c per $1 over $18,200 = $4,020
- $45,001 to $135,000: 30c per $1 over $45,000 = $27,000
- $135,001 to $190,000: 37c per $1 over $135,000 = $20,350
- Over $190,000: 45c per $1 over $190,000 = ($335,811 – $190,000) × 0.45 = $65,614.95
- Total tax before offsets: $4,020 + $27,000 + $20,350 + $65,614.95 = $116,984.95
The Low Income Tax Offset (LITO) phases out completely at $66,667, so no offset applies at this income level. Total income tax = $116,985 (rounded).
Medicare levy:
- Full 2% applies because income is above $35,013.
- $335,811 × 0.02 = $6,716.22
Total deductions: $116,985 + $6,716 = $123,701
Estimated take-home pay: $335,811 – $123,701 = $212,110 per year
This is a simplified estimate. It does not include HELP/HECS repayments, the Medicare levy surcharge (if you don't have appropriate private hospital cover), or salary sacrifice arrangements. It also assumes you are a resident for tax purposes.
What about superannuation?
Super is not deducted from your take-home pay if your salary is quoted as 'plus super'. The mandatory super guarantee is 12% from 1 July 2026, up to a maximum contribution base of $270,830. On a $335,811 salary, your employer would contribute $32,499.60 in super (12% of $270,830, as the base caps the contribution). This amount goes into your super fund, not your bank account. If your contract states a total package including super, your base salary will be lower. Always clarify which figure is being quoted. See our Super guide for more.
How the award applies
Medical oncologists who are employees in public hospitals may be covered by the Medical Practitioners Award 2020. However, consultant specialists like oncologists are typically classified above the award rates. The award provides minimum rates for interns, residents, and registrars. For example, a senior registrar at pay point 2 earns $2,096.35 per week ($55.17 per hour) under the current award. Once you become a consultant, your salary is negotiated individually or under a state enterprise agreement. The Take-home pay calculator can help you compare different scenarios.
Key considerations
- Public vs private mix: Oncologists often work in both public hospitals and private rooms. The ATO data reflects a mixed income stream. Private practice can significantly boost earnings but also comes with practice costs (rooms, staff, insurance) that are deductible.
- Tax deductions: As a medical professional, you can claim deductions for continuing education, college fees, equipment, and travel. These reduce your taxable income and therefore your tax.
- Medicare levy surcharge: If you do not have an appropriate level of private hospital cover and your income exceeds $93,000 (single), you may pay an extra 1% to 1.5% surcharge. This is not included in the estimate above.
Questions
What is the average oncologist salary in Australia?
The Australian Taxation Office reports that for the 2023–24 income year, medical oncologists had an average taxable income of $366,096 and a median of $335,811. These figures include income from both public and private practice. Actual salaries vary by experience, location, and employment type.
How is the Medicare levy calculated on an oncologist salary?
The Medicare levy is 2% of your taxable income. For 2026–27, the full 2% applies once your income exceeds $35,013 (the single upper threshold). Below $28,011 you pay nothing, and between those amounts a shading-in rate of 10 cents per dollar applies. On a $335,811 income, the levy would be $6,716.22.
Does the oncologist salary include superannuation?
Job advertisements often quote a total package that includes super. The mandatory super guarantee rate is 12% from 1 July 2026, up to a maximum contribution base of $270,830. If your salary is quoted as 'plus super', the super is added on top and does not reduce your take-home pay. Always check whether the figure is base salary or total package.