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Surgeon

ANZSCO 253511

A Surgeon performs surgical procedures for various medical issues, specialising in areas like emergency or heart surgery while collaborating with healthcare professionals.

  • This role has a low level of AI exposure. Core skills such as adaptability, social intelligence, and complex physical tasks remain beyond the capabilities of current AI.
      • ACT
      • VIC
      • QLD
      • TAS
      • WA
      • SA
  • 10,000 people employed in Australia
AI exposure data adapted from Felten, Raj & Seamans (2021). Shortage data sourced from Jobs and Skills Australia (2024).

How do I become a surgeon

Get qualified to work as a surgeon with a course recognised across Australia. Speak to a training provider to learn more.

Related career opportunities

Browse occupations related to Surgeon.

Common questions

In Australia, a full time Surgeon generally earns $4,500 per week ($234,000 annual salary) before tax. This is a median figure for full-time employees and should be considered a guide only. As you gain more experience you can expect a potentially higher salary than people who are new to the industry.

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This profession has seen a strong increase in employee numbers in recent years. There are currently 9,800 people working as a Surgeon in Australia and this number is expected to reach 10,800 by 2025. Surgeons may find work across all regions of Australia, particularly larger towns and cities.

Source: Australian Government Labour Market Insights

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If you’re planning a career as a Surgeon, a Bachelor of Medical Studies/Doctor of Medicine is an ideal qualification for you. This course covers medical science and clinical placement but also looks at social issues affecting health care. You’ll be able to specialise in a preferred discipline such as general practice, paediatrics, emergency care, psychiatry or surgery.

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Related fields of study

Healthcare

Healthcare and medicine are growing sectors, and demand is high for working professionals in these areas. Browse accredited health courses and health qualifications.

All Healthcare

Medicine

Whether you want to work directly with patients or be more involved in research or public health policy, this sector can take you in a range of exciting directions.

Career opportunities

Further reading

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All surgeon courses

Surgeon careers

A Surgeon carries out surgical procedures on patients for a range of medical issues. You might specialise in a type of surgery such as emergency care or heart surgery, or you may perform general procedures as required. Surgeons might liaise with other medical professionals and examine patients in the lead up to procedures. You may monitor patient health and progress after surgeries are complete.

Surgeons should have excellent fine motor skills and be able to remain calm during challenging situations. It’s important that you can follow correct procedures and adapt your skills to suit a range of circumstances. Surgeons should be able to communicate well with patients and other health care professionals.