For individuals moving to Australia or entering the local job market for the first time, understanding how salaries work is essential. From national minimum wages to industry-specific pay structures, salary expectations can differ significantly based on experience, region, and occupation.
Whether you’re planning to start your first job or are transitioning from another country’s pay system, this article provides a comprehensive overview of salary fundamentals in Australia, along with practical tips for navigating the workforce.
How Salaries Are Structured in Australia
Australian salaries are typically paid on a fortnightly or monthly basis, and most roles are governed by national or state-level employment standards. These include minimum wage laws, superannuation (retirement contributions), and leave entitlements.
The national minimum wage as of 2025 is approximately AUD $24 per hour, with higher minimums in some industries through modern awards or enterprise agreements. These frameworks also determine overtime rates, penalty rates for weekend work, and holiday pay, particularly for roles in healthcare, retail, and hospitality.
Employees also receive superannuation contributions on top of their regular wage—currently set at 11% of ordinary time earnings—paid by employers into a retirement fund.
What Influences Salary in Australia?
Several factors determine how much a person earns in Australia, including:
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Industry and role: Jobs in sectors such as healthcare, mining, and technology tend to offer higher wages compared to retail or hospitality.
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Location: Workers in major cities like Sydney or Melbourne may earn more than those in regional areas, although cost of living often offsets these differences.
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Experience and education: Qualifications, years of experience, and specific skill sets play a significant role in salary progression.
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Employment type: Full-time workers generally receive more consistent pay and benefits compared to part-time or casual employees.
These variations mean two professionals in similar roles may receive different salaries based on where they work, how long they’ve been in the role, and what type of employment contract they have.
Average Salary Expectations by Role
Salary expectations in Australia vary by profession. Here are some examples of average salaries in common fields:
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Healthcare roles such as nurses and speech pathologists are in high demand and typically offer strong starting salaries, with increases tied to experience and certifications.
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Legal and administrative positions, including paralegals, can see stable pay progression, especially in urban centres and large firms.
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Real estate agents often earn a base salary plus commissions, which can lead to high earnings in competitive housing markets.
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Aviation professionals, like pilots, have some of the highest salaries in the country, reflecting the technical skills and licensing required.
To explore more detailed salary breakdowns by profession, visit the Remitly Jobs Blog, which features guides on roles such as nurse practitioners, anaesthesiologists, radiographers, and more.
Key Salary Tips for Newcomers to Australia
Starting a job in a new country involves more than just understanding pay—it also requires adjusting to local workplace expectations and culture. Here are a few important considerations for newcomers:
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Familiarise yourself with your employment rights through Fair Work Australia
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Learn how to read your payslip, including tax and superannuation deductions
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Understand award rates if you’re entering hospitality, aged care, or retail
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Clarify whether your salary offer includes or excludes superannuation
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Be prepared to negotiate salary and benefits during the interview process
In addition to salary, it helps to adjust to broader aspects of life in Australia. New drivers, for instance, may benefit from reading How to Adjust to Driving on the Left Side in Australia. And for smoother communication in the workplace, learning everyday expressions can be useful—How to Learn Aussie Slang as a Newcomer is a helpful starting point.
Industries with the Highest Earning Potential
While salaries vary widely, some industries tend to offer consistently high earnings across most roles. These include:
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Healthcare and medical specialists
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Legal and corporate advisory services
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Mining and engineering
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Aviation and transport
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Information technology and cybersecurity
Roles in these industries often require specific degrees, licenses, or certifications, but they can offer long-term financial stability and advancement opportunities.
FAQ: Salary in Australia
1. What is the current minimum wage in Australia?
As of 2025, the national minimum wage is approximately AUD $24 per hour. Industry awards may set higher rates.
2. Do Australian salaries include superannuation?
Some salary offers include superannuation, while others list it separately. Always clarify whether super is included in the advertised pay.
3. How often are salaries paid in Australia?
Most employees are paid fortnightly or monthly, depending on the employer’s payroll cycle.
4. Is salary negotiation common in Australia?
Yes, salary negotiation is standard, particularly in professional and skilled roles. It’s important to research typical pay for your industry.
5. Are casual employees paid differently than full-time workers?
Casual workers receive a higher hourly rate (called a casual loading) but are not entitled to paid leave or other full-time benefits.
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