Before you sign....always read the fine print!

Salary Expectations and Contracts

For many of you, the associate position you land in Australia will be your first. That being said, it pays to do your research and be really thorough. Most clinics and principal chiropractors in OZ are very fair...however, you there are some sharks out there so be careful before you sign anything.

Contracts
I recommend that you have a signed contract before starting work with any chiropractor or clinic. Have a solicitor look it over before you sign it. This ensures you are protected and have rights. Many chiropractors have a verbal contract, however this won't hold very well in court if someone does mess around with you and your fees. Also, remember that while you are on a 457 VISA there are certain requirements your employer, as your sponsor, must meet in the contract eg. minimum base salary (see VISA post).


Salary Expectations
This is relative to your location. In a mining town like Mackay (pop 100, 000) I was earning far more and receiving a higher percentage than in a cosmopolitan town like Sydney or Brisbane.

As a guide, here are a few things you should discuss with your employer:

1. Retainer - this is a base amount that you will receive each week regardless of how many patients you adjust.

• Regional Town - approx $800-1000 AU
• City - approx $600-800 AU

2. Percentage of total fees earned

• Regional Town - approx 45-50%
• City - approx 40-50%

Some chiropractors/clinics offer associates a sliding scale. This is based on an incentive scheme of total patients/fees per week. For instance, a typical sliding scale may be as follows:

If you see between 40-50 patients per week, you would receive 40% of total fees earned
If you see between 50-70 patients per week, you would receive 45% of total fees earned
If you see over 70 patients per week, you would receive 50% of total fees earned

However, usually the maximum percentage would be 50%.

Remember, VISA requirements state that you must earn a minimum salary per annum so ensure your employer is aware of the criteria (more on VISA in another post).