What Is The Average Salary in Australia? [2024 Average Salaries Update]

Are you planning to move to Australia? Perhaps you’re an expat seeking new opportunities or someone planning to relocate to this vast and diverse country. One of the critical factors to consider is income—specifically, the average salary in Australia. Understanding what you can expect to earn is essential for financial planning, lifestyle choices, and overall well-being.

What is the average salary in Australia? Well, the 2024 average salary in Australia is around $90,000 per year. But keep in mind that this is just what most people earn. Each industry in Australia has different average salary in Australia. For example,

• Finance & Insurance: The average salary in Australia is $100,000+

• Healthcare & Medicine: Australia average salary is $200,000+

• Information Technology (IT): The average salary of an Australian in this sector $90,000 – $110,000

• Education & Training: The average income in Australia is $90,000

However, this figure just scratches the surface. Australia offers a diverse job market, and average salary Australia can vary significantly depending on your industry, experience, and even the state you choose to call home.

This begs the question: what is a good salary in Australia to comfortably live and fulfill your aspirations?

This blog post talks more than just a single national figure. We’ll provide a comprehensive analysis of average wage in Australia across various sectors and explore how factors like location and experience influence your earning potential. By the end, you’ll gain valuable insights to plan your finances effectively and make informed decisions about your move to Australia.

If you’re looking for work in a major city like Sydney or Melbourne, you can expect to earn a little more than the national average.

Australia Average Salary

Understanding the average salary in Australia is essential for planning your move. While the headline figure might suggest a specific income, it’s crucial to acknowledge the variations that exist.

Here’s a snapshot of the average wage in Australia landscape:

• National Average: The average yearly salary in Australia is around $90,000. This translates to roughly $7,570 per month.

• Median vs. Average: It’s important to note that the median salary in Australia is often a better indicator of what most people earn. This is because the median represents the middle point in the salary distribution, whereas high earners can skew the average. The median salary in Australia was $6,650 per month, according to Glassdoor.

What is the average salary in Australia? Here’s the expected average salary of an Australian in different industries:

• Finance & Insurance: Roles like investment bankers, actuaries, and senior analysts earn over $100,000 annually.

• Healthcare & Medicine: Specialists like Surgeons and Anesthesiologists can earn over $200,000 per year.

• Information Technology (IT): Software Developers and Data Scientists typically earn $90,000 – $110,000 annually.

• Education & Training: High School Teachers earn around $90,000 per year on average.

Now, let’s compare the average wage in Australia with the salaries in the UK, Germany, and the US:

• In the UK, the median average monthly wage across all industry sectors is £2,341. This translates to a pre-tax average annual salary of around £28,092, which is approximately $37,000 when converted to Australian dollars.

• In Germany, the highest average salary was €45,457, approximately $70,000 when converted to Australian dollars.

• In the US, the average salary range in Q4 of 2023 was $59,384, approximately $77,000 when converted to Australian dollars.

So, when comparing the average wage in Australia with those in the UK, Germany, and the US, it appears Australia has a higher average salary. However, it’s necessary to note that the cost of living and tax rates can vary significantly between these countries, impacting the average weekly earnings and the overall purchasing power of these salaries.

Read more about good salaries in Melbourne and Sydney.

Factors Influencing The Australia Average Salary

The average Australian salary is $90,000 per year. However, it doesn’t mean that ex-pats and other workers will receive this amount. The Average annual salaries depend on several factors. These factors significantly influence all the salaries and your earning potential.

1. Education and Qualifications

Higher education often translates to higher salaries. A study by the Mitchell Institute found that Australians with a bachelor’s degree earn, on average, 80% more than those with only a high school diploma. This highlights the significant financial returns associated with pursuing higher education.

2. Industry and Occupation

The industry you choose significantly impacts your income. Sectors like Mining and Finance boast some of the highest average salaries in Australia due to the specialized skills and experience required. In contrast, industries like Retail and Hospitality typically offer lower average wages.

Example:

• The mining industry in Australia offers high-paying positions such as mine managers, engineers, and geologists, with salaries ranging from $77,000 to $240,000 annually. For instance, a mine manager can earn over $170,000 per year, while a mining engineer’s salary can reach up to $200,000 annually.

• In contrast, the average finance salary in Australia is around $103,990 per year. Entry-level positions start at $79,388 per year, with salaries increasing for experienced workers. Roles in finance include Finance Managers, Finance Officers, and Senior Finance Analysts, each with varying responsibilities and salary ranges.

3. Experience and Expertise

Experience is a valuable commodity. Unsurprisingly, professionals with extensive experience within their field can expect to earn considerably more than individuals in entry-level positions. According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS), full-time employees with over 15 years of experience earn, on average, 61% more than those with less than 5 years of experience.

4. Location

Geographic location plays a considerable role. Major cities like Sydney and Melbourne generally offer higher average salaries compared to regional areas. This can be attributed to factors like a higher cost of living, a larger talent pool, and a greater concentration of specific industries.

Here are the average salaries in different places in Australia:

• Sydney, New South Wales: The average salary in Sydney for full time workers is approximately AU$81,000. Other sources suggest it could be as high as AU$136,540 or as low as AU$91,278.

• Melbourne, Victoria: The average salary in Melbourne for full time workers is approximately AU$77,000. Other sources suggest it could be as high as AU$124,758 or as low as AU$87,256.

• Australia (nationwide): The average salary for all full time workers in Australia is AU$69,888 per year or AU$1,344 per week. Other sources suggest it could be as high as AU$90,800 or as low as AU$74,174.

Here’s an additional point to consider:

• The national minimum wage in Australia serves as a safety net, ensuring fair compensation for all workers. As of July 1, 2023, the national minimum wage stands at $23.23 per hour, translating to an average weekly income of around $882.80 for a standard 38-hour workweek.

Remember: The average salary figure serves as a starting point. Focusing solely on the average can be misleading when considering your earning potential. A more comprehensive approach involves analyzing factors like your job title, industry, experience level, and desired location. Consulting resources like the ABS and seeking professional guidance can provide valuable insights into average salaries and income expectations within your specific field and target area.

What is a Good Salary in Sydney? [2023]

Average Income in Australia in Different Industries

Understanding average salaries in Australia goes beyond a single national figure. Examining specific industries provides a clearer picture of earning potential within your chosen field. Here’s a breakdown of average incomes across various key sectors, including example jobs in Australia and their average annual salaries:

1. Mining & Resources:

• Boasting some of the highest average salaries in Australia, this sector offers lucrative opportunities for qualified professionals:

  • Mining Engineer: $135,000+

  • Geologist: $125,000+

  • Resources Analyst: $100,000+

  • Drilling Supervisor: $95,000+

  • Maintenance Technician (Mining): $85,000+

Future Growth: The demand for skilled and experienced workers in this sector is expected to remain steady, driven by global resource requirements and technological advancements in areas like automation and sustainable mining practices.

Related article: Cost of Living in Sydney for a Family

2. Finance & Insurance:

• Financial professionals consistently rank among the highest earners in Australia:

  • Investment Banker: $150,000+

  • Actuary: $120,000+

  • Senior Financial Analyst: $110,000+

  • Risk Management Specialist: $105,000+

  • Financial Advisor: $90,000+

Future Trends: The FinTech industry is experiencing significant growth, creating a demand for specialists in areas like blockchain technology and cybersecurity. This trend is expected to influence future salary prospects within the sector, with potential for even higher earnings in specialized fields.

Also read: What Is A Good Salary in Vienna? [2023 Guide]

3. Healthcare & Medicine:

• Medical professionals play a vital role and are well-compensated for their expertise:

  • Surgeon: $250,000+

  • Specialist (e.g., Cardiologist, Anesthesiologist): $200,000+

  • General Practitioner: $180,000+

  • Registered Nurse (Senior Level): $100,000+

  • Pharmacist: $95,000+

An Aging Population: Australia’s growing elderly population is expected to drive demand for healthcare professionals in the coming years, creating promising opportunities with potentially increasing average Australian salary.

Are you planning to stay in Australia for a while? Check our article about the Best Websites To Find Apartments in Australia

4. Information Technology (IT):

• The IT sector is a major driver of the Australian economy, offering a range of well-paying opportunities:

  • Software Developer: $95,000+

  • Data Scientist: $110,000+

  • Cybersecurity Specialist: $100,000+

  • IT Project Manager: $90,000+

  • Network Administrator: $85,000+

Continuous Demand: The ever-evolving technological landscape necessitates a skilled IT workforce. This ongoing demand is likely to translate into positive salary trends within the sector, with potential for even higher earnings in specialized areas like artificial intelligence and machine learning. Their minimum wage is sometimes higher than the basic salary of some full time workers.

Related article: How To Stay in Austria After the Graduation?

5. Education & Training:

• While not boasting the highest salaries, the education sector offers a stable career path and the opportunity to contribute meaningfully to society:

  • High School Teacher: $90,000+

  • University Lecturer: $110,000+

  • Vocational Training Specialist: $85,000+

  • School Principal: $120,000+ (depending on experience and school size)

  • Early Childhood Educator: $65,000+

Teacher Shortages: Australia is experiencing a shortage of qualified teachers in specific subjects like Mathematics, Science, and Special Education. This presents an opportunity for individuals with relevant qualifications to potentially secure higher paying positions.

Remember:

• Average salary figures are a starting point. Salaries within each sector can vary significantly depending on factors like experience, qualifications, location, and the specific company.

• “What is a good salary in Australia?” is subjective. A good salary depends on your desired lifestyle, financial goals, and family situation.

Also read: The Average Cost of Living in Australia for a Family

Opinions of Expats Regarding the Average Annual Salary in Australia

Australia’s average annual salary of $90,000 attracts many expats, but individual experiences can vary significantly. Here are some mixed opinions and considerations:

• Sarah, Marketing Manager: “The average earnings and wage growth here has allowed me to save a considerable amount while still enjoying a comfortable lifestyle. My weekends involve exploring local markets and trying new restaurants, something I wouldn’t have been able to afford back home.”

• David, Software Engineer: “While the average Australian salary is attractive, the cost of living, especially housing in major cities, can be quite high. My average weekly earnings seem to disappear quickly after factoring in rent, groceries, and transportation.”

• Emily, Teacher: “My teaching salary here is comparable to what I earned back home. However, the shorter commute, beautiful beaches, and overall laid-back work culture make the trade-off worthwhile.”

• Michael, Investment Banker: “My job title in the finance sector offers a much higher average wage in Australia than what I would have expected in my home country. The career prospects and earning potential are excellent in my field.”

• Liam, Recent Graduate: “Coming here with less than ten years of experience, I knew the initial salary wouldn’t be extraordinary. However, the experience and career progression opportunities are valuable. With hard work and gaining local experience, I expect my average weekly earnings to increase significantly in the coming years.”

Also read: Living In Australia vs Living In Canada: Which is Better?

What is a Good Salary in Australia?

While the average annual salary in Australia sits around $90,000, determining a “good” salary hinges on various factors, especially the cost of living.

Australia boasts a high quality of life, but this comes with a price tag. Major cities like Sydney and Melbourne are particularly expensive. Here’s a general breakdown:

• Housing: Rent or mortgage payments can significantly impact your budget. Inner-city apartments can easily reach $1,500 per month, while suburban houses might cost upwards of $3,000 per month.

• Groceries: Expect to spend around $400-$500 per month on groceries for a couple.

• Utilities: Factor in around $200-$300 per month for utilities like electricity, water, and gas.

• Transportation: Public transport costs can vary depending on usage, but budgeting $100-$200 per month is a good starting point.

Good Salary for Different Types of Household Arrangements

With an average annual salary of $90,000, individuals can lead a comfortable life, especially if residing outside major city centers. However, this figure might not suffice for a luxurious lifestyle, particularly in expensive locations.

Is the $90,000 average annual salary enough for singles, couples, or families? Let’s see below!

• Singles: An annual salary around $60,000 could be sufficient for a single person living a modest lifestyle, managing rent, utilities, and basic needs.

• Couples/Double Income: A combined income exceeding $100,000 annually would provide a more comfortable living standard for couples, potentially allowing for savings and discretionary spending.

• Families: Families with children require a higher income to cover additional expenses like childcare, education, and larger living spaces. An annual salary exceeding $120,000 would be more suitable for a family lifestyle.

What is a good salary in Australia? Well, keep in mind that location matters. The cost of living varies significantly across states and even within major cities. Sydney and Melbourne are generally more expensive than regional areas. Also, your spending habits significantly influence how far your average weekly earning stretches.

Related article: Which Country Is Better To Live In: Germany or Australia? 

Final Thoughts About the Average Salary in Australia

Understanding the average salary in Australia is crucial for anyone considering a move or evaluating their financial situation. While the headline figure of $90,000 per year provides a general idea, it’s important to delve deeper into specific industries, locations, and personal circumstances to determine what constitutes a good salary.

Factors such as education, industry, experience, and location play significant roles in determining your earning potential. Mining, finance, healthcare, IT, and education are among the industries offering competitive salaries, with figures varying widely based on role and expertise.

It’s also important to consider the cost of living, which can vary significantly between major cities and regional areas. While $90,000 can provide a comfortable lifestyle for individuals and couples, families may require higher incomes to cover additional expenses.

In conclusion, the average salary in Australia provides a solid foundation, but personal circumstances and lifestyle choices will ultimately determine what constitutes a good salary for you. Researching industry trends, negotiating salaries, and pursuing career advancement opportunities can all contribute to improving your financial situation and overall quality of life in Australia.

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