Damon Mcknight
Australia has some of the highest monthly net salaries in the world, ranking 6th globally. The average annual salary in Australia is around $100,000, though this varies depending on factors such as experience, industry, and location. For instance, the average salary in Sydney is $83,000 per year before taxes, while the median salary for full-time workers is just over $88,000. Salaries also differ across generations, with Gen Z reporting the highest salary expectations, followed by Millennials, Gen X, and Baby Boomers.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Average salary in Australia | $100,016 per year |
| Average salary in Sydney | $83,000 per year |
| Average salary in New South Wales | $168,160 |
| Average salary of a junior graduate equipment engineer | $65,000 per year |
| Average salary of a quality manager | $130,000 per year |
| Average salary of an operations manager | $160,000 per year |
| Average salary of an engineering manager | $175,000 per year |
| Average salary of an operations director | $240,000 per year |
| Average starting salary for technology employees | $75,000 per year |
| Average salary of a project manager at a small company | $135,000 per year |
| Average salary of a project manager at a large company | $170,000 per year |
| Average salary considered good by Australians | $152,775 per year |
| Average salary considered good by Gen Z | $177,212 per year |
| Average salary considered good by Baby Boomers | $126,938 per year |
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What You'll Learn
Salary expectations by generation
Australia has a relatively high average salary compared to many other countries, owing to its robust economy, high living costs, and labor laws. The average annual salary in Australia is around $100,000, according to recent figures. However, salary expectations vary across generations.
Baby Boomers
Born between 1946 and 1964, Baby Boomers believe that an annual salary of $126,938 is good. In contrast, the average salary that covers basic expenses in Australia is $100,000, indicating that Baby Boomers' expectations exceed the baseline.
Generation X
Generation X, born between 1965 and 1980, regard an annual salary of $148,602 as good. Their salary expectations are higher than those of Baby Boomers, reflecting a desire for more financial stability or a comfortable lifestyle.
Millennials
Millennials, born between 1981 and 1996, believe that an annual salary of $152,402 would meet their needs. Their salary expectations are slightly higher than those of Generation X, which could be attributed to factors such as the cost of living crisis or changing lifestyle preferences.
Gen Z
Gen Z adults, born in 1997 and onward, have the highest salary expectations, believing that an annual salary of $177,212 is adequate. This generation has likely been influenced by factors such as unaffordable housing and persistent inflation, leading to their higher salary expectations. Additionally, Gen Z regards $198,880 as the salary level needed to live a better life, which includes extra luxuries like occasional overseas holidays.
While the salary expectations vary across generations, it's important to note that the average salary in Australia is also influenced by factors such as industry, location, and seniority. Additionally, salaries in Australia are typically negotiated between the employer and employee, and employees may be entitled to benefits beyond their basic salary.
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Salary comparison tools
Michael Page Salary Comparison Tool
Michael Page's salary comparison tool allows you to compare your salary to industry standards and the average wage in Australia. You can enter your job title, and the tool will show you the current average salary for your role, as well as the average weekly earnings, median salary, and industry benchmarks for your area, industry, and position. The data is updated annually and is based on job titles from Michael Page placements and advertised roles in the last 12 months.
Aquent Australia's Compare My Salary Tool
Aquent Australia's "Compare My Salary" tool provides real-time salary comparisons for marketing, design, and technology professionals. It features salaries for over 100 roles and allows you to explore your salary range anonymously and securely without requiring personal contact information. This tool can empower you to navigate salary negotiations and make strategic decisions about your career, helping you find job opportunities that align with your skills and expected compensation.
SmartMatch Average Salary Calculator
SmartMatch provides AI-powered insights into over 1,000 roles across metro and regional locations in Australia. With real-time updates, you can track salary trends as you advance in your career. SmartMatch considers factors such as industry standards, job market demand, and employer needs to help you understand how your compensation package measures up against the competition.
While these tools provide a general indication of salary ranges and comparisons, it's important to remember that salaries can vary based on factors such as experience, skills, industry, location, and company size. Additionally, the cost of living and tax rates can significantly impact the perceived value of your salary.
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Salary averages by state
The average salary in Australia varies across states and territories. While the national average salary in Australia is around $100,016 per year, the median salary is around $65,000 a year, which is a more accurate reflection of what a typical worker in Australia earns.
In New South Wales, the average weekly wage for full-time adults is $1,831.90, slightly below the national average. The average salary in the city of Sydney is $82,000 or $83,000 a year before taxes. After accounting for taxes, the average worker in Sydney earns around $62,772 annually.
In Victoria, the average weekly wage for full-time adults is $1,882, which is $41.40 below the national average. For men, this figure increases to $1,962.70, and for women, it decreases to $1,814.90.
In Western Australia, the salary range is $55,000-$65,000. In South Australia, the salary range is also $55,000-$65,000, while employees in South Australia tend to earn less than those in Western Australia. The Northern Territory has a salary range of $50,000-$55,000. The Australian Capital Territory has the highest-earning region in the country, with a salary range of $55,000-$65,000.
It's worth noting that salaries vary depending on factors such as experience, industry, and location. Additionally, the cost of living and living standards in a particular area can impact the perceived value of a salary.
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Salary averages by industry
The average yearly salary in Australia is AUD 88,991, with the median salary being AUD 6,675 per month. However, salaries differ across sectors and industries.
Salary Averages in the Technology Sector
Starting salaries for technology employees are around $75,000 and increase with seniority. A project manager at a small company can expect to earn $135,000 a year, while the same position at a larger company typically pays $170,000.
Salary Averages in the Engineering and Manufacturing Sector
Junior graduate equipment engineers earn an average of $65,000 a year, while more experienced quality managers earn around $130,000. Operations managers earn approximately $160,000, and senior professionals such as engineering managers and operations directors earn around $175,000 and $240,000, respectively.
Salary Averages in the Arts and Recreation Services Sector
This sector covers creative work, performing arts, professional sports, amusement centres, zoos, and museums.
Salary Averages in the Retail Sector
The retail industry involves selling products or services to the public, including electronics, furniture, clothing, and sporting goods. Service stations and supermarkets are also considered retail establishments.
Salary Averages in the Healthcare and Social Assistance Sector
Healthcare and social assistance is one of the largest industries in Australia, employing 14.5% of the workforce.
Salary Averages in the Mining Sector
The mining industry in Australia has experienced significant growth due to increased iron ore prices.
Salary Averages in the Construction Sector
The construction sector accounts for about 9% of Australia's GDP and is predicted to have a 2.4% annual increase in the coming years.
Salary Averages in the Administrative and Support Services Sector
This sector includes jobs that support the work of others, such as office administration, building cleaning, and pest control.
Salary Averages in the Accommodation and Food Services Sector
This sector includes establishments in the hospitality industry, such as hotels, restaurants, cafes, and pubs.
It's important to note that salaries can vary based on factors such as experience, education, location, and company size. The cost of living in a particular city or state can also impact the perceived value of a salary.
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Salary increases by job sector
The average annual salary in Australia is around $100,000, according to recent figures. This figure varies depending on factors such as experience, industry, and location. The average weekly earnings for an adult Australian working full-time are $1,923.40 pre-tax. This amount is considered a good salary, covering basic expenses, and is higher than the global average.
- Engineering and Manufacturing: The average pay rise when changing jobs in this sector is between 0% and 5%. However, there is potential for salary growth as workers gain seniority. For example, junior graduate equipment engineers earn an average of $65,000 per year, while operations directors can make around $240,000 annually.
- Technology/IT: Starting salaries in the technology sector tend to be higher than in other industries, averaging around $75,000. Salaries increase with seniority and the size of the company. For instance, a project manager at a small company may earn $135,000 per year, while the same role at a large company could pay $170,000.
- Digital: Employees in roles requiring digital skills can expect salary increases of 11-15% when changing jobs, making it one of the top industries for pay rises. Junior roles in digital marketing, social media, and content production offer average salaries between $50,000 and $70,000 per year.
- Public Sector: In the March 2025 quarter, public sector wages rose by 1.0% seasonally adjusted, compared to a 0.9% increase in the private sector. The largest contributors to quarterly wage growth were Health Care and Social Assistance, and Education and Training. Public sector wage changes typically lag behind the private sector due to higher enterprise bargaining agreement (EBA) coverage.
- Other Industries: Wage rates are currently growing above average across various industries, including accommodation and food, ICT, mining, construction, admin, and manufacturing.
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Frequently asked questions
The average annual salary in Australia is around $100,000. The average weekly wage is $1,923.40, so anything around this figure is considered a good salary.
On average, Australians consider a 'good' base salary to be around $152,775 per year. However, this varies between generations. Gen Z consider a 'good' salary to be $177,212, while Baby Boomers would be satisfied with $126,938.
Again, this depends on your generation. Gen Z said they would need an average of $198,808 per year to be comfortable, while Baby Boomers said they would need $106,747.
The starting salaries for technology and IT employees tend to be higher than in other sectors (around $75,000) and increase with seniority. In engineering and manufacturing, salary averages vary depending on the area of focus. Top-paying roles are within the oil and gas, and utilities sectors.
People in New South Wales have the highest salary expectations, with $168,160 deemed a 'good' income. The average salary in Sydney is $83,000 per year before taxes. In rural areas, a salary of $100,000 allows for a more comfortable lifestyle, with lower housing costs.
