How to Become a Speech Pathologist in Australia
Are you considering a career in Speech Pathology? Awesome! Today we’re going to take you through all the steps on how to become a Speech Pathologist in Australia. Whether you’re a High School student, currently studying and considering a switch, or in the pursuit of a career change, we’re here to help you out.
Keep on reading to find out how to become a Speech Pathologist in Australia
3 Steps to Become a Speech Pathologist in Australia
STEP #1: Complete an accredited degree in Speech Pathology
The first step you’ll need to complete in your pursuit to becoming a Speech Pathologist in Australia is to graduate with an accredited university degree.
If you’re in High School, we’d recommend completing a science class during your senior years to ensure you meet the pre-requisites for a Bachelor of Speech Pathology. When making your University selection, take a look at Speech Pathology Australia’s website to confirm that your chosen University offers an accredited degree. Wherever you end up going, keep in mind that your Speech Pathology degree will take four years to complete.
If you’re in the middle of a career change and have already completed a Bachelor’s Degree in a complementary field like Linguistics or Biology, you may qualify for a Master’s Degree of Speech Pathology. This two-year accelerated program will help you get your start in the Speech Pathology career.
During your studies (particularly in your third and fourth year of the Bachelor’s or either year of your Master’s) you may choose to pursue a role as an Allied Health Assistant. Working as an Allied Health Assistant at a Speech Pathology practice can help you to gain valuable experience while you complete your degree.
STEP #2: Register with Speech Pathology Australia
Woohoo! You’ve graduated with flying colours and you’re now ready for the next step in your Speech Pathology journey. After completing your chosen University degree, you’ll need to register with Speech Pathology Australia (SPA) to become a Certified Practising Speech Pathologist (CPSP).
STEP #3: Meet the Continuing Professional Development Requirements
As a Certified Practising Speech Pathologist, you’ll need to take part in ongoing professional development in order to maintain your certification with Speech Pathology Australia. With this in mind, it’s important to keep Continued Professional Development (CPD) opportunities front of mind when searching for your first job after graduating University.
Speech Pathology Australia requires you to complete a minimum of 12 hours of Continuing Professional Development (CPD) activities each year. This is tracked using Speech Pathology Australia’s Professional Self Regulating (PSR) Program.
At SpeechEase, we’re proud to offer all our Speech Pathologists (including new grads!) a Professional Development package valued at $10,000! Learn more about a career at SpeechEase Speech Therapy here.
How Long Does It Take to Become a Speech Pathologist in Australia?
As mentioned earlier, a Bachelor of Speech Pathology in Australia usually takes 4-5 years to complete if studying full-time. By contrast, a Master’s Degree usually takes 2-3 years. Whichever route you choose, you’ll be equally equipped to kickstart your career as a Speech Pathologist.
Are Speech Pathologists In Demand In Australia?
Absolutely – yes! We can’t get enough Speech Pathologists in Australia; there are so many clients on waitlists across the country waiting for passionate, empathetic clinicians to support them. As a Speech Pathologist you’ll be in demand across Australia, particularly in Queensland, Victoria, and regional areas.
At SpeechEase, we are always on the lookout for new graduates, early career and senior Speech Pathologists who are ready to leap into the world of private practice.
What Do Speech Pathologists Earn in Australia?
Depending on your experience level, Speech Pathologists in Australia earn anywhere between $70,000-$110,000 per year. According to Seek’s most recent estimates, Queensland Speech Pathologists earn $85,000 per year on average. At SpeechEase, we offer our team above award wages and the opportunity to work towards becoming a high-income earner.
Other benefits to keep in mind when looking for a role in Speech Pathology is flexibility. Some clinics, like SpeechEase, offer flexible working hours and the opportunity to develop your ideal workweek and caseload.
Keen to learn more about what it’s like being a Speech Pathologist in Australia? We’ve got something perfect for you! Here’s what a week in the life of a new grad Speechie looks like. Go on, you know you want to find out what it’s all about!