Radiographer
Use X-rays and other imaging technology to help doctors diagnose injuries, illness and medical conditions.
What They Do
Radiographers operate medical imaging equipment to produce diagnostic images that help doctors investigate injuries, illnesses and other health conditions.
Their work can involve X-rays, CT scanning and other imaging procedures. They prepare patients, select the appropriate equipment and settings, position patients correctly, monitor their wellbeing during procedures and assess whether the images are suitable for diagnostic use. Jobs and Skills Australia
Who This Career Suits
Radiography suits people who enjoy healthcare, science and technology but also want regular patient interaction.
It requires strong attention to detail, good communication and the ability to work carefully with sophisticated medical equipment.
It can particularly suit someone who likes practical clinical work but does not necessarily want the same level of ongoing bedside care found in nursing.
Key Skills
Clinical Judgement, Attention to Detail, Communication, Technology, Patient Care, Problem Solving, Science, Teamwork
Work Environment
Hospital, Healthcare Facility, Medical Imaging, Indoor, Team-Based
Education & Training
Becoming a Diagnostic Radiographer in Australia generally requires completing a Medical Radiation Practice Board-approved university qualification in diagnostic radiography or medical imaging.
Approved Australian programs include bachelor's degrees in medical imaging, radiography and medical radiation science, as well as some graduate-entry master's programs. Graduates of approved programs are qualified to apply for registration, although they still need to meet the other registration requirements. AHPRA
Registration with the Medical Radiation Practice Board of Australia is required to practise using protected titles such as Diagnostic Radiographer or Radiographer.
Career Changer Pathway
People with backgrounds in science, healthcare, biomedical science or related technical fields may find radiography a natural career transition.
However, because it is a regulated health profession, career changers generally need to complete an approved diagnostic radiography or medical imaging qualification before becoming registered.
People who already hold a university degree may be eligible for a graduate-entry master's pathway at some universities.
Early Career
Graduate Radiographers develop confidence in patient positioning, image acquisition, radiation safety and hospital procedures.
They often rotate through different imaging departments and work closely with senior radiographers, radiologists and other health professionals.
Mid Career
Experienced Radiographers can take responsibility for more complex imaging procedures and develop expertise in areas such as CT, trauma imaging, theatre imaging or advanced diagnostic techniques.
They may also supervise students and junior staff.
Senior / Veteran Career
Senior Radiographers may progress into advanced clinical positions, team leadership, department management, education or specialist imaging roles.
Further training can also support movement into areas such as MRI, CT leadership, clinical education or medical-imaging management.
Salary Guide
Early Career
80000
Mid Career
110000
Senior / Veteran
140000
Indicative annual salary (AUD)
Indicative annual salary (AUD)
Indicative annual salary (AUD)
Salary data source:
Jobs and Skills Australia / ABS
Salary data source URL:
Date :
4 October 2026 at 12:00:00 am
Career Outlook
The outlook is strong. JSA currently records approximately 26,000 Medical Imaging Professionals, with annual employment growth of around 1,700 workers. Around 64% work full-time, and the median workforce age is 36. Jobs and Skills Australia
The specific Medical Diagnostic Radiographer occupation records around 10,200 workers, with 67% working full-time and a median age of 35.
Job Outlook :
Outlook Source :
Strong
Where do I go from here?
Explore Training
Find courses, qualifications and training pathways for this career.
Explore Jobs
See current opportunities and understand what employers are looking for.
Similar Careers
Discover other careers that use similar skills and interests.