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Work in Australia Jobs (With Salaries) – A Complete Guide
Australia is one of the world’s most attractive destinations for skilled workers, migrants, and job seekers. With a strong economy, diverse industries, and structured visa pathways, there are numerous employment opportunities with competitive salaries across sectors. Whether you’re planning to move, work remotely, or simply explore opportunities abroad, this guide covers everything you must know about jobs and salaries in Australia in 2025–2026.
Why Work in Australia?
Australia’s labor market continues to grow steadily, offering jobs with competitive pay, social benefits (like Medicare), and pathways to permanent residency. Some industries even offer much higher pay due to skill shortages or regional demand—making Australia attractive for both local and international professionals.
1. Average Salary Trends in Australia
According to official and employment data, the average annual full-time salary in Australia is around AUD $98,000–$100,000 per year, though this varies widely by industry and experience.
Typical Average Salaries by Sector
| Industry Sector | Average Annual Salary (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Healthcare & Social Work | AUD $100,000–$120,000+ |
| Information Technology | AUD $90,000–$140,000 |
| Engineering | AUD $85,000–$130,000 |
| Finance & Accounting | AUD $90,000–$110,000 |
| Teaching & Education | AUD $70,000–$110,000 |
| Hospitality & Tourism | AUD $50,000–$90,000 |
| Retail & Customer Service | AUD $50,000–$80,000 |
Even within these averages, jobs in major cities like Sydney, Melbourne, and Perth generally pay more due to higher living costs.
2. Top In-Demand Jobs and Salaries in Australia
Australia’s job market favors both highly skilled professionals and trade workers. Below are some in-demand categories and typical salary ranges:
Healthcare Sector
The healthcare industry remains one of the largest employers, especially with an aging population:
- General Practitioner: AUD $110,000–$160,000+
- Registered Nurse: AUD $75,000–$105,000
- Physiotherapist: AUD $70,000–$100,000
Information Technology (IT)
Technology jobs continue to grow, especially in software, cloud, and cybersecurity:
- Software Engineer / Developer: AUD $90,000–$140,000
- Cloud Architect: AUD $95,000–$140,000
- IT Project Manager: AUD $120,000–$160,000
(High-end senior tech roles can exceed AUD $250,000)
Engineering & Construction
Demand is strong for engineers across specialties:
- Civil / Mechanical / Electrical Engineer: AUD $85,000–$140,000
- Construction Manager: AUD $120,000–$180,000
- Mining / Resources Engineering: AUD $150,000–$200,000+
(Mining sectors often pay above the national average)
Finance, Accounting & Business
- Accountant / Financial Analyst: AUD $90,000–$110,000
- HR Professional: AUD $75,000–$140,000
- Marketing & Sales Manager: AUD $85,000–$140,000
(Growing business sectors maintain steady demand)
Teaching & Education
- Secondary / Primary Teacher: AUD $70,000–$100,000
- University Lecturer: AUD $100,000–$145,000
Trades & Vocational Jobs
Even trade jobs can be well paid, especially in mining and remote regions:
- Refrigeration Mechanic: ~AUD $85,000–$145,000+ (can reach AUD $150,000+)
3. Highest Paying Jobs in Australia (Top Tiers)
Some professions in Australia command very high salaries due to skill levels, responsibility, or scarcity:
- Surgeons & Specialists: AUD $250,000–$400,000+
- Anaesthetists: AUD $250,000–$600,000
- Internal Medicine Physicians: ~AUD $300,000+
- Mining Engineers & Managers: AUD $180,000–$250,000
- Executive CEOs & High-Level Managers: AUD $180,000–$500,000+
(Top roles often appear on skilled occupation lists)
4. Job Types and Visa Opportunities
Skilled Work Visas
Australia offers several visa streams for workers, including:
- Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189)
- Employer Nomination Scheme (Subclass 186)
- Temporary Skill Shortage Visa (Subclass 482)
These visas help migrants fill skill shortages and potentially move toward permanent residency. Many of the in-demand occupations listed above are eligible for sponsorship under these programs.
5. How Salaries Vary by Location
Salary levels can differ significantly between states and territories. For example:
| State/Territory | Average Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| Australian Capital Territory | ~AUD $100,000 |
| New South Wales | ~AUD $95,000 |
| Western Australia | ~AUD $95,000 |
| Victoria | ~AUD $90,000 |
| Queensland | ~AUD $85,000 |
| Tasmania | ~AUD $75,000 |
Salaries are generally higher in larger metros, but so are living costs (especially rent and housing).
6. Tips for Job Seekers in Australia
1. Use Trusted Platforms
Look for jobs on SEEK, Indeed Australia, LinkedIn, and company career pages. Always check for salary details before applying.
2. Build a Strong Resume (CV)
Tailor your CV to Australian standards—clear structure, relevant keywords, and measurable outcomes.
3. Understand Tax & Cost of Living
Australia has progressive income tax and social benefits like superannuation, which affect take-home pay.
4. Visa & Certification Requirements
Many jobs, especially in healthcare and engineering, require Australian certification. Research recognition of foreign qualifications early.
Conclusion
Working in Australia offers a wide range of opportunities from high-paying professional careers to well-paid trade roles. Salaries vary by industry, experience, and location, but overall, Australia’s robust job market and structured pathways make it a compelling destination for international workers and skilled professionals.
Sources & References
Here are the key references used in this article to support job and salary information:
- Australian Salaries Overview and industry pay ranges.
- In-demand jobs and salary ranges in Australia.
- Detailed salary examples for top careers.
- High-paying jobs and special salary data.
- Visa info and job requirements.