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Top 20 Highest Paying Jobs in Sydney

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Highest Paying Jobs in Sydney

When it comes to major capital cities in Australia, Sydney wins with the highest GDP (Gross Domestic Product per capita).

According to the latest data, Sydney’s GDP per capita comes in at A$84,700. It has a steep lead over other cities like Perth (GDP A$72,800), Melbourne (GDP A$70,500), and Brisbane (GDP A$68,800).

For those who are looking to land a high-paying job with great prospects, Sydney has a lot to offer, especially now that the economy and job market are starting to recover from the turmoil brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic.

This guide breaks down the highest-paying jobs in Sydney for those who are looking to make a career change and for students who are planning ahead and want to earn a good salary as soon as they graduate.

You may also like:

  1. Most In-Demand Jobs in Australia

  2. Online Work from Home Jobs in Australia

  3. Work From Home Jobs with No Experience in Australia

What Salary Is Considered Rich in Sydney?

The average salary in Sydney, Australia is about A$76,000 per year. To be considered “rich” in Sydney, though, you’d need to earn quite a bit more than this.

Salaries of over A$100,000 per year, for most people, would likely fall into the “rich” or “comfortable” category. However, considering the cost of living in Sydney (which is 100 per cent higher than Australia’s national average), a higher income may be required to cover all of a person’s (or family’s) expenses and leave enough leftover for other luxuries.

This is especially true if you are married, have multiple children, etc. The more expenses you have to keep track of, the higher your salary will need to be for you to not feel stressed out or overwhelmed by those extra costs.

What Is the #1 Highest-Paid Position in Sydney?

Of all the best-paid jobs in Sydney, which one pays the best? What’s the number one highest-paying job in Sydney?

Based on the latest data, surgeons, on average, typically earn higher salaries than any other worker in Sydney, Australia. Their salaries range from A$196,000 on the low end to A$624,000 on the high end, with an average of about A$400,000 per year.

A surgeon’s earning potential can vary quite a bit depending on the types of surgeries they perform and the types of patients they work with, too. For example, a heart transplant surgeon earns an average of A$480,000 per year, whereas a pediatric surgeon earns a bit less, around A$373,000 per year.

For those who don’t want to become surgeons, the good news is that there are plenty of other highly paid jobs available in the Sydney area. Listed below are the 20 highest-paying jobs worth considering if you want to earn a great salary now and in the future:

20. Marketing Director

Average Annual Salary: A$142,000 per year

👉 Browse Marketing Director Jobs in Sydney on GrabJobs

19. Digital Marketing Manager

Average Annual Salary: A$147,000 per year

👉 Browse Digital Marketing Manager Jobs in Sydney on GrabJobs

18. Information Technology (IT) Project Manager

Average Annual Salary: A$160,000 per year

👉 Browse IT Project Manager Jobs in Sydney on GrabJobs

17. Construction Project Manager

Average Annual Salary: A$172,000 per year

👉 Browse Construction Project Manager Jobs in Sydney on GrabJobs

16. Chief Information Officer

Average Annual Salary: A$176,000 per year

👉 Browse Chief Information Officer Jobs in Sydney on GrabJobs

15. Airline Pilot

Average Annual Salary: A$184,000 per year

👉 Browse Airline Pilot Jobs in Sydney on GrabJobs

14. Advertising Sales Director

Average Annual Salary: A$184,000 per year

👉 Browse Advertising Sales Director Jobs in Sydney on GrabJobs

13. Construction Manager

Average Annual Salary: A$184,000 per year

👉 Browse Construction Manager Jobs in Sydney on GrabJobss

12. College Professor

Average Annual Salary: A$192,000 per year

👉 Browse College Professor Jobs in Sydney on GrabJobs

11. Architectural Manager

Average Annual Salary: A$192,000 per year

👉 Browse Architectural Manager Jobs in Sydney on GrabJobs

10. Lawyer

Average Annual Salary: A$208,000 per year

👉 Browse Lawyer Jobs in Sydney on GrabJobs

9. Financial Manager

Average Annual Salary: A$211,000 per year

👉 Browse Financial Manager Jobs in Sydney on GrabJobs

8. Orthodontist

Average Annual Salary: $196,417

👉 Browse Orthodontist Jobs in Sydney on GrabJobs

7. Chief Financial Officer

Average Annual Salary: A$224,000 per year

👉 Browse Chief Financial Officer Jobs in Sydney on GrabJobs

6. Chief Executive Officer

Average Annual Salary: A$240,000 per year

👉 Browse Chief Executive Officer Jobs in Sydney on GrabJobs

5. Bank Manager

Average Annual Salary: A$256,000 per year

👉 Browse Bank Manager Jobs in Sydney on GrabJobs

4. Lawyer

Average Annual Salary: A$272,000 per year

👉 Browse Lawyer Jobs in Sydney on GrabJobs

3. Internal Medicine Specialist

Average Annual Salary: A$333,000 per year

👉 Browse Internal Medicine Specialist Jobs in Sydney on GrabJobs

2. Judge

Average Annual Salary: A$336,000 per year

👉 Browse Judge Jobs in Sydney on GrabJobs

1. Surgeon

Average Annual Salary: A$400,000 per year

👉 Browse Surgeon Jobs in Sydney on GrabJobs

Top 5 Highest-Paying Industries in Sydney

If you want to earn a high salary here, you’ll need to know about the highest-paying industries in Sydney. The following are 5 of the best fields to pursue a career in if you want to make great money and have a fulfilling job with excellent prospects:

1. Healthcare

For most people, it’s not surprising to learn that the healthcare industry is one of the highest-paying in Sydney. After all, surgeons, doctors, nurses, and other healthcare professionals have to put in a lot of time and effort to develop their skills and learn what’s needed to keep patients safe and healthy.

Virtually all careers in the healthcare field come with a higher-than-average salary. At the same time, though, some are more lucrative than others, including the following:

Top 3 Job Titles and Salaries
  • Heart Transplant Surgeon: Average salary A$480,000 per year
  • Pediatric Surgeon: Average salary A$372,000 per year
  • Internal Medicine Specialist: Average salary A$333,000 per year
Job Prospects

Prospects look great for most people who choose to pursue a healthcare career in Sydney. There’s always a strong need for skilled, compassionate individuals who can provide patients with a high level of care. Over the last year and a half, the demand for healthcare workers has become even more pressing thanks to the COVID-19 pandemic, so now would be the perfect time to make a career switch or start pursuing a degree in a healthcare-related field.

👉 Browse Jobs in the Healthcare Industry in Sydney

2. Law

The legal industry is another high-paying industry worth considering in Sydney. Judges and lawyers earn very high salaries in exchange for their expertise, and other types of workers, such as paralegals, can also make above-average livings without having to put in quite as much time in school.

Top 3 Job Titles and Salaries
  • Judge: Average salary A$336,000 per year
  • Lawyer: Average salary A$208,000 per year
  • Paralegal: Average salary A$73,752 per year
Job Prospects

In some parts of the world, the job outlook for the legal industry is not as promising as it is for some other fields. However, it is still showing positive growth in Sydney and throughout Australia. According to a recent report published by Lawyers Weekly, 34 per cent of surveyed law firms said that they increased their staffing levels in 2020, and another 34 per cent reported maintaining a consistent headcount. Most of the cuts that took place during 2020 were among small and medium-sized firms, so job prospects look especially good for those who can get hired by a larger law firm.

👉 Browse Jobs in Law in Sydney

3. Business and Finance

There are plenty of high-paying jobs for Sydney residents looking to break into the business and finance sectors. These fields offer a wide range of roles for people of all experience levels, from fresh graduates to seasoned veterans, and many of them come with above-average salaries, including the following:

Top 3 Job Titles and Salaries
  • Bank Manager: Average salary A$256,000 per year
  • Chief Executive Officer: Average salary A$240,000 per year
  • Chief Financial Officer: Average salary A$224,000 per year
Job Prospects

There will always be a need for business-savvy and financially savvy individuals in Sydney, so job prospects for this industry look generally good now and moving forward. Even many entry-level positions are offering high salaries and are regularly accepting new applicants, so those without a lot of experience can still find ways to get a foot in the door and start working their way up.

👉 Browse Jobs in the Business and Finance Industry in Sydney

4. Architecture

The architecture industry also pays very well and offers good job prospects for those who have received a degree in architecture or a similar field. As the architecture field continues to expand and evolve, new job opportunities will arise (along with opportunities to make more money).   

Top 3 Job Titles and Salaries
  • Architectural Manager: Average salary A$192,000
  • Architectural Consultant: Average salary A$184,000
  • Architectural Assistant Manager: Average salary A$181,000
Job Prospects

Job prospects for those working in the architecture industry look very promising. This is true for everyone from entry-level architects to higher-ups like managers and consultants. The field shows signs of strong future growth, especially as Australia’s infrastructure needs continue to increase, both in the public and private sectors.

👉 Browse Jobs in the Architecture Industry in Sydney

5. Construction

The construction industry also offers very high salaries, especially for those in higher-up positions. People who work in the construction field get to enjoy a lot of job security, too, similar to those who work in the architecture field. After all, there will always be a strong need for skilled labourers who can assist with building private and public sector projects. 

Top 3 Job Titles and Salaries
  • Construction Manager: Average salary A$184,000 per year
  • Construction Project Manager: Average salary A$176,000 per year
  • Construction Operations Manager: Average salary A$168,000 per year
Job Prospects

Job prospects are promising for those in the construction field. Even those starting out in entry-level or labourer positions will have lots of opportunities to work their way up and earn leadership roles, which naturally come with higher salaries.

👉 Browse Jobs in the Construction Industry in Sydney

Top 5 Highest Paying Jobs in Sydney for Fresh Graduates

In addition to knowing about the highest-paying industries in Sydney, it’s also important for students to know the highest-paying jobs in Sydney for fresh graduates. If you’re currently in school, here are some of the best-paid jobs you may qualify for after you finish your education:

1. Business Consultant

Recent data shows that consulting is one of the top career options for recent graduates, and business consulting, specifically, is a great option to consider.

Those who have obtained a degree in business management or a similar field likely have a lot of knowledge about what various companies can do to improve day-to-day operations, increase efficiency, and increase their profits (all of which are things that most businesses are actively looking to do).

Business consultants don’t have to spend as much time in school as some other high-earning professionals (such as surgeons, judges, lawyers, etc.). After earning a 4-year degree, many graduates can find work right away consulting or working as an associate in a larger company. Both of these opportunities allow them to earn a generous starting salary while also gaining valuable experience.

👉 Browse Business Consultant Jobs in Sydney on GrabJobs

2. Accountant

An accountant is another example of a professional who can start earning a great salary right out of school.

To become an accountant in Sydney, you need at least a bachelor’s degree in accounting, finance, or a similar field. Some also choose to go on and earn a master’ degree or above, but these often aren’t necessary.

Once you’ve finished school, you can start applying to accounting positions at various businesses, and you’ll likely hear a “yes” sooner than you think. After all, every company, whether it’s in the healthcare industry or the automotive industry, needs the help of a skilled accountant to keep its finances in order. 

👉 Browse Accounting Jobs in Sydney on GrabJobs

3. Surgeon

If you don’t mind spending a long time in school before you can start earning a high salary, a career as a surgeon is one worth pursuing.

After they graduate from medical school and complete the required internships (this usually requires around12 years of schooling after leaving high school), surgeons can start earning a lot of money right away.

Even the starting salary for most surgeons is well above the average salary in Sydney, which is good news when you stop and consider how much money most surgeons spend getting their education in the first place.

👉 Browse Surgeon Jobs in Sydney on GrabJobs

4. Lawyer

Like surgeons, lawyers put in a lot of time and effort upfront to gain an education and learn the skills needed to be great at their jobs. Once their schooling is complete, though, most lawyers start earning generous salaries right away, especially if they get hired at a large firm.

Lawyers have good job prospects in Sydney right now. While a lot is expected of them once they start working, they’re also compensated very well for their time and talents.

If you’re not afraid of investing time, effort, and money right now, it’ll pay off and yield great returns in the future after you’ve graduated. 

👉 Browse Law Jobs in Sydney on GrabJobs

5. Engineer

Engineers in Sydney, Australia also typically earn a higher-than-average salary right after graduating, too. Although their salaries are not as high as the starting salaries for some other jobs, they’re still higher than the city’s average and can provide a very comfortable living for new graduates.

To become an engineer, you’ll need to earn a bachelor’s degree in engineering (mechanical engineering, civil engineering, electrical engineering, etc.). When you’ve finished your schooling and have landed a job (which will likely happen very soon since there’s always a high demand for talented engineers in Sydney), you’ll find that your starting salary is well worth the time and effort you put in so you could earn your degree in the first place.

👉 Browse Engineering Jobs in Sydney on GrabJobs

What Degree Pays the Most in Sydney?

Do you want to qualify for one of the highest-paying jobs in Sydney for fresh graduates? Do you want to maximize the returns you get from your university education?

If so, you need to make sure you’re working toward the right degree while you’re in school. This chart breaks down some of the best degrees to pursue if you want to land one of the best-paid jobs in Sydney after graduation:

Degree Type

Potential Salary

Medical

A$400,000 per year

Business Management

A$100,000 per year

Accounting

A$70,000 per year

Law

A$272,000 per year

Engineering

A$90,397 per year

It doesn’t matter if you want to spend several years (over a decade, in the case of a surgeon) in school or if you want to earn a high salary after completing a standard 4-year degree (which is required for careers in engineering, accounting, business consulting, etc.). Regardless of your current goals and aspirations, there are plenty of options that will help you to start making a lot of money as soon as you graduate.

Remember, this table is just a general breakdown to help you see some of the most lucrative degree paths to consider. It’s not all-encompassing, though, and there are plenty of other great degrees you can pursue that will also help you make a great living in Sydney.

Are You Ready to Land One of the Highest Paying Jobs in Sydney?

Now that you know more about the highest-paying jobs in Sydney, are you ready to begin pursuing one?

It doesn’t matter if you need to go back to school, change your major while you’re in school, or start working on some new skills to make yourself more marketable. In either case, you now know what kinds of careers you ought to be working toward if a generous salary is important to you.

If you need more help finding the best-paid jobs in Sydney, GrabJobs is here to help. Check out our free job search tool today to narrow down your search and uncover lots of great options for every job seeker.

Top 20 Most In-Demand Jobs in Sydney [year]

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jobs in Sydney

By the end of 2020, the city of Sydney experienced a massive spike in unemployment. With unemployment rates reaching 5.9 per cent, over 10,000 people found themselves out of work.

Now, 7 months later, things are starting to look up and the unemployment rate is slowly but surely starting to fall. New jobs are being added every day in Sydney and, even though lockdowns are getting in the way for some people, there are still lots of work opportunities here.

If you’re not sure what kind of job to apply for, keep this list of the most in-demand jobs in Sydney in [year] in mind. We’re also going to break down the most valuable job skills to develop in [year] to increase your chances of getting hired.

You may also like:

  1. Most In-Demand Jobs in Australia

  2. Online Work from Home Jobs in Australia

  3. Work From Home Jobs with No Experience in Australia

What Skills Are In High Demand in Sydney?

You may need to brush up on certain skills before you can apply for (and get hired to do) the most in-demand jobs in Sydney in [year]. If you’re not sure where to focus your energy while preparing to enter the workforce again, here are some of the most important skills to work on:

  • Statistical Analysis and Data Mining: In [year] and beyond, many businesses are using statistical analysis and data mining to learn more about their customers and clients. This information helps them to create more targeted ad campaigns, better products, and more. If you know how to gather data, analyze it, and make predictions or recommendations based on what you see, you’ll find that you’re very valuable to a lot of different companies in Sydney and the surrounding area.
  • SEO/SEM: SEO (short for search engine optimisation) and SEM (short for search engine marketing) are valuable tools that a variety of businesses use to improve their marketing strategies and bring more organic traffic to their websites. If you have a background in either (or preferably both) of these techniques, you’ll be a great asset to any business looking to improve its approach to digital marketing.
  • Middleware and Integration Software Development: Middleware is a type of software that allows for integration and connection between other software programs, apps, etc. Of all the software development skills that are of high value right now in Sydney, the ability to develop middleware software is in particularly high demand. If you’re comfortable with programming languages and know how to work on these kinds of products, you’ll qualify for a lot of jobs in the area.
  • Human Resource Management: With lots of companies bringing on new employees in the wake of the pandemic, there’s a strong need for human resource management skills in Sydney in 2021. Do you have good interpersonal and organizational skills? Do you know how to support and train new employees? If so, your skills will be an asset to all kinds of businesses that are looking to expand their HR departments.
  • Network and Information Security: As more companies begin transitioning their services online, there’s a greater need for network and information security skills in the workplace. All kinds of businesses need help keeping their data secure and protecting themselves (and their customers or clients) from hacking and data breaches. If you have a background in information technology and specialise in cybersecurity, there’s a good chance your skills will be needed now and in the future.
  • Mobile App Development: All kinds of businesses are looking to build apps these days so they can expand their offerings and remain relevant. If you have a web development or app development background and are comfortable with programming languages, project management, etc., you’ll have an easy time finding work in the app development world, whether you get hired by one company or work on an independent basis with several different businesses.
  • User Interface (UI) and User Experience (UX) Design: User interface and user experience design skills are needed to make sure apps, software, websites, etc. look good and are easy to navigate. If you have an eye for design and detail and are comfortable with software, website, and/or app development, there’s a good chance your skills will be needed in [year] (and beyond) in Sydney.
  • Creative Problem-Solving: No matter what kind of job you’re looking to apply for, creative problem-solving skills are a must. Most companies are looking for talented professionals who can look at problems from unique angles and come up with creative solutions for them. If this sounds like you, be sure to highlight your skills on your resume or CV so you can stand out from other applicants.
  • Collaboration: The ability to collaborate and work well with other team members is another valuable job skill in Sydney in [year]. Whether you’re looking to work in food service or at a marketing agency, there’s a strong demand for workers who can connect with others, listen to their suggestions, and communicate clearly and professionally. If you consider yourself a good communicator, both verbally and in writing, be sure to indicate that on your resume.

What Are The Most In-Demand Jobs in Sydney?



Now that you know what kinds of skills you ought to start developing, let’s dive into the most in-demand jobs in Sydney in [year]. If you’re looking for work in the Sydney area and want to get hired right away, here’s a list of 20 awesome jobs (complete with salary information, a list of the top companies hiring, and information about career prospects) that you may want to apply for today:

1. Registered Nurse

Salary Range: A$80,737 to $140,972 per year

Top Companies Hiring: Campbelltown Private Hospital, Serco Plc, 24-7 Healthcare

Career Prospects: Of all the in-demand jobs in Sydney, the registered nurse position is one of the most important positions to fill. Job prospects look very good for registered nurses, especially in the wake of COVID-19, now and in the future, so students who are looking for a promising career may also want to consider this career path.

👉 Browse Nursing Jobs in Sydney on GrabJobs

2. Nursing Assistant

Salary Range: A$42K to A$60K per year

Top Companies Hiring: Randstad Healthcare, Sydney Children’s Hospital Network, Sydney Local Health District

Career Prospects: Like nurses, there’s also a strong need for nursing assistants in Sydney. Nursing assistants play a key role in supporting nurses and other medical professionals, so their services are instrumental in keeping hospitals and clinics running smoothly. Prospects look great for this career path, and training doesn’t take very long, so it’s a good option for those who want to get back into the workforce right away.

👉 Browse Nursing Assistant Jobs in Sydney on GrabJobs

3. Aged Care Worker

Salary Range: A$41,672 to A$50,616 per year

Top Companies Hiring: Randstad Healthcare, Bupa, Sydney Local Health District

Career Prospects: Another example of healthcare jobs in Sydney in high demand is the aged care worker position. As a significant portion of Sydney’s population gets older, the need for care workers who can support these individuals will become even more pressing. This job offers a lot of security, and new positions are opening all the time, so it’s a great choice for those who want to work in the healthcare field and have great patient care skills.

👉 Browse Aged Care Worker Jobs in Sydney on GrabJobs

4. Veterinary Technician/Assistant

Salary Range: A$36,100 to A$121,000 per year

Top Companies Hiring: Apiam Animal Health, Tassal

Career Prospects: People in Sydney (and the rest of the world, for that matter) always need help caring for their animals. There’s a great demand for veterinary technicians and assistants who can work with veterinarians to care for pets and keep pet parents informed about how their furry friends are doing. Prospects look great for this job now and in the future.

👉 Browse Nursing Jobs in Sydney on GrabJobs

5. Website/App Developer

Salary Range: A$74K to A$110K per year

Top Companies Hiring: The Weir Group Plc, Allianz, Thomson Reuters

Career Prospects: As we mentioned above, all kinds of businesses can benefit from the services of a skilled website or app developer. If you have a knowledge of programming languages and know how to build high-quality, high-performing websites, apps, and software programs, there are tons of job opportunities available to you throughout the Sydney area.

👉 Browse Website/App Development Jobs in Sydney on GrabJobs

6. Construction Worker

Salary Range: A$66,492 to A$145,003 per year

Top Companies Hiring: Ivory Group, Allegra Recruitment Pty Ltd, Swift Resources

Career Prospects: Construction worker jobs also rank among the most in-demand jobs in Sydney. Infrastructure in Sydney and throughout Australia is booming right now, and there are tons of private and public sector projects that need talented workers to get done on time and on budget.

👉 Browse Construction Jobs in Sydney on GrabJobs

7. Teacher

Salary Range: A$55K to A$100K per year

Top Companies Hiring: Superprof, NSW Department of Education, Trinity Grammar School Summer Hill

Career Prospects: There’s a great need for teachers (for students of all ages) in Sydney. Lots of students also need private tutors and teachers, too, for those who don’t want to work in the public sector but still have a passion for teaching. Prospects look very good for teachers moving forward in all areas, and they’re likely to stay that way for a long time.

👉 Browse Teaching Jobs in Sydney on GrabJobs

8. Childcare Worker

Salary Range: A$52,540 to A$76,451 per year

Top Companies Hiring: University of New South Wales, Optus, SBS

Career Prospects: As more people return to the workforce following the COVID-19 pandemic, there’s an increased need for childcare workers who can support them and watch their kids while they’re gone during the day. Prospects for childcare workers look great now, and the need for them will likely continue to remain steady (if not grow) moving forward.

👉 Browse Childcare Worker Jobs in Sydney on GrabJobs

9. Accountant

Salary Range: A$50K to A$160K per year

Top Companies Hiring: Perigon Group, Intrado, Fourquarters

Career Prospects: All kinds of businesses can benefit from talented, experienced accountants to help them manage their finances and make smart decisions for the future. IF you have an accounting background, this is a great, high-demand job to apply for. Students should also consider a career in accounting if they want to enjoy good career prospects once they graduate, as the demand for accountants isn’t going to go away anytime soon.

👉 Browse Accountant Jobs in Sydney on GrabJobs

10. Retail Sales Associate

Salary Range: A$40K to A$60K per year

Top Companies Hiring: Tabcorp Holdings, Hastings, Ecco Shoes

Career Prospects: The retail sales industry is growing rapidly post-COVID, and there’s a strong demand for retail sales associates who can help various stores provide adequate customer support, assist with inventory, etc. Whether you have a retail sales background or not, there are lots of positions available.

👉 Browse Retail Sales Jobs in Sydney on GrabJobs

11. Kitchen Hand

Salary Range: A$45,006 to A$69,576 per year

Top Companies Hiring: Iss, Master Catering Services, Crown Sydney

Career Prospects: Kitchen hand is another example of the most in-demand jobs in Sydney. As restaurants reopen and start welcoming guests back to the dining room again, there’s a strong need for hard-working, dedicated kitchen hands to keep things running smoothly.

👉 Browse Kitchen Hand Jobs in Sydney on GrabJobs

12. Fibrous Plasterer

Salary Range: A$66,396 to A$74,365 per year

Top Companies Hiring: Brix Projects, Crowntex Australia, MP Fire

Career Prospects: Fibrous plasterers are skilled tradespeople who can earn a very nice living as part of Sydney’s growing construction industry. If you know how to plaster walls and other services, there’s a good chance you can find a lot of job openings in the area.

👉 Browse Plasterer Jobs in Sydney on GrabJobs

13. Electrician

Salary Range: A$80K to A$100K per year

Top Companies Hiring: Ventia Pty Ltd, Power-One Electrical, The Star Entertainment Group

Career Prospects: The construction industry in Sydney always needs skilled electricians who can assist with various building projects. If you’ve worked as an electrician previously, or if you’re willing to learn the tricks of the trade now, you’ll find plenty of work in no time.

👉 Browse Electrician Jobs in Sydney on GrabJobs

14. Carpenter

Salary Range: A$63K to A$94K per year

Top Companies Hiring: JMichael Constructions, BGIS, Dennis Building

Career Prospects: Like plasterers and electricians, there’s a high demand for skilled carpenters in Sydney, too. If you have a background in carpentry or are interested in learning from another carpenter, your job prospects look very good now and in the future.

👉 Browse Carpenter Jobs in Sydney on GrabJobs

15. Fitness Instructor

Salary Range: A$23,600 to A$79,500 per year

Top Companies Hiring: Macquarie University, Inner West Council, Fitness First

Career Prospects: As people’s lives slowly go back to “normal” and they start working to lose the weight they gained in 2020, the need for talented, hard-working, and enthusiastic fitness instructors will continue to increase. If you’re passionate about health and fitness, your career prospects in this field look promising.

👉 Browse Fitness Instructor Jobs in Sydney on GrabJobs

16. Commercial Cleaner

Salary Range: A$60K to A$74K per year

Top Companies Hiring: Silk Hospitality, Challenger Services Group, St. Vincent’s Private Hospital Sydney

Career Prospects: There are lots of cleaning jobs in Sydney in high demand right now, especially for commercial cleaners who can keep office buildings and other public spaces clean. The need for these types of cleaners will continue for quite some time, so your prospects in this field are very good.

👉 Browse Cleaner Jobs in Sydney on GrabJobs

17. Administrative Assistant

Salary Range: A$42K to A$64K per year

Top Companies Hiring: Equifax, Adobe, Cbre

Career Prospects: If you’re an organized, reliable, friendly individual looking to get your foot in the door at a new company, working as an administrative assistant is a great option. There’s always a need for administrative help, so you’ll be able to enjoy a lot of job security while learning the ins and outs of a new business.

👉 Browse Admin Jobs in Sydney on GrabJobs

18. Data Centre Technician

Salary Range: A$60,825 to A$83,600 per year

Top Companies Hiring: Amazon Corporate Services, Paxus, IBM

Career Prospects: If you’re looking to break into the data processing or data analytics field, a job as a data centre technician is a great starting point. There are lots of openings in this field, and many of them come with generous salaries and opportunities for advancement.

👉 Browse Data Centre Technician Jobs in Sydney on GrabJobs

19. Customer Service Advisor

Salary Range: A$50K to A$65K per year

Top Companies Hiring: Adecco, Randstad, Keegan Adams

Career Prospects: Customer service skills are in high demand right now, and lots of companies in Sydney are looking for help answering questions and fielding complaints. Whether you have previous experience or not, your chances of finding a job in this arena are very promising.

👉 Browse Customer Service Jobs in Sydney on GrabJobs

20. Forklift Driver

Salary Range: A$46,595 to A$58,500 per year

Top Companies Hiring: Qantas Airwaves Limited, Randstad, Drake International

Career Prospects: There are plenty of forklift driver jobs in demand in Sydney, Australia. If you’re confident operating heavy machinery and are looking to work in a warehouse setting, this is a great job to consider with lots of opportunities to advance.

👉 Browse Forklift Driver Jobs in Sydney on GrabJobs

Apply for One of the Most In-Demand Jobs in Sydney in [year]

Now that you know more about the most in-demand jobs in Sydney in [year], are you ready to start filling out applications? Keep this list of in-demand skills and in-demand jobs in Sydney in mind so you can find a great career that aligns with your needs and goals.

If you need more help landing the most in-demand jobs in Sydney, GrabJobs is here for you. Check out our job search tool today to narrow down your options and find openings in your area and preferred industry.

Top 20 Highest Paying Jobs in Australia

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Highest Paying Jobs in Australia

By the end of this year, the GDP per capita in Australia is expected to reach 56100.00 USD. In 2022, it’s expected to continue to reach approximately 57300.00 USD.

As Australia’s job landscape is also beginning to trend upward once more, and the country is recovering from the economic impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. There are plenty of job openings throughout Australia, including openings for high-paying positions.

For those who are looking to make a career change or who are making future plans for their careers, this guide can help them to understand which positions pay the most and the degrees that are required to qualify for them. Read on to learn about the highest-paying jobs in Australia.

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What Salary Is Considered Rich in Australia?

As of November 2020, the average salary in Australia for full-time adults is around A$1,712 per week, which works out to A$89,024 per year.

The cost of living in Australia is higher than that of many other countries. Compared to the United States, for example, the cost of living is 13.71 per cent higher, even though rent is, on average, 9.83 per cent lower.

To enjoy a higher quality of life and live comfortably, without having to worry about everyday expenses, a person would need to earn an above-average salary. In Australia, a “rich” person’s salary would start at around A$100,000 or more per year. However, according to this article from Vogue, all of the country’s top 10 earners bring home more than $A150,000 per year.

What Is the #1 Highest-Paid Position in Australia?

Among the best-paid jobs in Australia, a job as a surgeon is the one to consider if you want to earn a very high salary. On average, surgeons earn a salary of A$394,303, which is nearly 4 times what the average person in Australia earns per year.

It’s not exactly surprising that surgeons are the highest-paid professionals in Australia. After all, most healthcare careers pay very generous salaries. Furthermore, surgeons spend an inordinate amount of time in school honing their skills before they begin practising, so it makes sense that their salary would match the amount of effort they’ve put in.

The good news is that, if the idea of working as a surgeon doesn’t appeal to you, there are plenty of other high-paying positions in Australia that you may want to consider instead, including the following:

20. Systems Engineer

Systems Engineer Average Annual Salary: A$124,628

👉 Browse Systems Engineering Jobs in Australia on GrabJobs

19. Information Technology Security Specialist

Information Technology Security Specialist Average Annual Salary: A$125,932

👉 Browse IT Security Jobs in Australia on GrabJobs

18. Engineering Manager

Engineering Manager Average Annual Salary: A$137,530

👉 Browse Engineering Manager Jobs in Australia on GrabJobs

17. Information Technology Architect

Information Technology Architect Average Annual Salary: A$147,735

👉 Browse IT Architect Jobs in Australia on GrabJobs

16. Engineering Manager

Engineering Manager Average Annual Salary: A$159,940

👉 Browse Engineering Manager Jobs in Australia on GrabJobs

15. CEO or Managing Director

CEO Average Annual Salary: A$164,896

👉 Browse Managing Director Jobs in Australia on GrabJobs

14. Mining Engineer

Mining Engineer Average Annual Salary: A$184,507

👉 Browse Mining Engineer Jobs in Australia on GrabJobs

13. Medical Practitioner

Medical Practitioner Average Annual Salary: A$222,933

👉 Browse Medical Practitioner Jobs in Australia on GrabJobs

12. Psychiatrist

PsychiatristAverage Annual Salary: A$235,558

👉 Browse Psychiatrist Jobs in Australia on GrabJobs

11. Head of Compliance

Head of ComplianceAverage Annual Salary: A$277,500

👉 Browse Head of Compliance Jobs in Australia on GrabJobs

10. Information Technology Portfolio Manager

Information Technology Portfolio Manager Average Annual Salary: A$280,000

👉 Browse IT Portfolio Manager Jobs in Australia on GrabJobs

9. Chief Financial Officer

Chief Financial Officer Average Annual Salary: A$280,000

👉 Browse Chief Financial Officer Jobs in Australia on GrabJobs

8. Head of Technology

Head of Technology Average Annual Salary: A$300,000

👉 Browse Head of Technology Jobs in Australia on GrabJobs

7. Investment Director

Investment Director Average Annual Salary: A$300,000

👉 Browse Investment Director Jobs in Australia on GrabJobs

6. Internal Medical Specialist

Internal Medical Specialist Average Annual Salary: A$304,752

👉 Browse Internal Medical Specialist Jobs in Australia on GrabJobs

5. Mining Head of Operations

Mining Head of Operations Average Annual Salary: A$325,000

👉 Browse Mining Head of Operations Jobs in Australia on GrabJobs

4. Legal Secretary

Legal Secretary Average Annual Salary: $342,000

👉 Browse Legal Secretary Jobs in Australia on GrabJobs

3. Construction General Manager

Construction General Manager Average Annual Salary: A$350,000

👉 Browse Construction General Manager Jobs in Australia on GrabJobs

2. Anaesthetist

Anaesthetist Average Annual Salary: A$386,065

👉 Browse Anaesthetist Jobs in Australia on GrabJobs

1. Surgeon

Surgeon Average Annual Salary: A$394,303

👉 Browse Surgeon Jobs in Australia on GrabJobs

Top 5 Highest Paying Industries in Australia

As with any country, the most well-paid jobs typically tend to fall into certain industry categories. The following are the top 5 highest paying industries in Australia, each of which is worth considering if you’re looking to make a career change, or if you want to start your career in a high-paying job shortly after leaving school.

1. Mining, Resources & Energy

Australia is home to some of the world’s most diverse and abundant mineral and energy reserves. Because of this, the mining, resources, and energy industry is one of the country’s most promising.

There’s a wide range of jobs available in this field, and the average salary for the entire industry is around A$100,000 per year. The mining, resources, and energy industry has grown a lot over the last several years. However, industry professionals have also just barely scratched the surface when it comes to what’s available down below.

Top 3 Job Titles and Salaries
  • Driller: Average salary A$80K to A$200K
  • Mining Engineer: Average salary A$184,507
  • Mining Head of Operations: Average salary A$325K
Job Prospects

Because so much of Australia’s surface is still left unexplored and untapped, there will likely be a growing demand in the mining, resources, and energy industry for quite a while. This means career prospects look great for most professionals who hope to break into it.

👉 Browse Jobs in the Mining Industry in Australia

2. Consulting & Strategy

Consultants and strategists can earn a great living in Australia by advising others on how to run their businesses more smoothly.

From construction and legal consultants to healthcare and financial strategists, there are tons of jobs in this industry, which is worth approximately $1.5 billion, that pay experts generous salaries in exchange for their expertise.

Top 3 Job Titles and Salaries
  • Management Consultant: Average salary A$88,377
  • Financial Consultant: Average salary A$108,076
  • Legal Consultant: Average salary A$109,000
Job Prospects

There’s a high demand in Australia for talented consultants who can provide advice and direction to other professionals. Most business owners, whether they work in law or retail, want to know what they can do to run their companies better and increase their profits. Consultants have the skills and experience needed to help them accomplish that.

👉 Browse Consulting Jobs in Australia

3. Construction

It’s not surprising that construction is one of the most profitable industries in Australia. The industry generates more than $360 billion in revenue each year and produces approximately 9 per cent of the country’s Gross Domestic Product. It also has a projected annual growth rate of 2.4 per cent over the next 5 years.

Top 3 Job Titles and Salaries
  • Scaffolder: Average Salary A$94,603
  • General Foreman: Average Salary A$158,005
  • Construction General Manager: Average Salary A$350,000
Job Prospects

As we mentioned above, the construction industry in Australia is a major contributor to the country’s GDP, and it’s expected to grow steadily over the next several years. If you’re looking for a career that offers lots of opportunities and room for growth, most people would likely agree that working in the construction industry would be a safe bet.  

👉 Browse Jobs in the Construction Industry in Australia

4. Engineering

There are lots of job opportunities in the engineering industry in Australia, too. This particular industry has held steady for several years, and it’s even expected to reach a valuation of A$95.69 billion by the year 2025. There will likely always be a need for experienced, skilled engineering professionals, so it makes sense that this has been and continues to be one of Australia’s highest-paying industries.

Top 3 Job Titles and Salaries
  • Civil Engineer: Average Salary A$100,000 to A$120,000
  • Electrical Engineer: Average Salary A$75,000 to A$152,580
  • Petroleum Engineer: Average Salary A$66,000 to A$194,000
Job Prospects

The engineering industry seems to be a very safe, secure industry for those who want to earn a high salary and enjoy a great deal of job security. There’s a strong need for engineers in Australia, and that need isn’t likely to go away anytime soon.

👉 Browse Jobs in the Engineering Industry in Australia

5. Healthcare

Finally, healthcare, one of Australia’s highest-paying industries. This industry is expected to generate approximately A$162.4 billion in 2021 alone. Not only is it home to Australia’s highest-paying career (surgeon), but there are lots of other well-paying positions that fall under the healthcare umbrella that job seekers might want to consider.

Top 3 Job Titles and Salaries
  • Internal Medicine Specialist: A$304,752
  • Anaesthetist: Average salary A$386,065
  • Surgeon: Average salary A$394,303
Job Prospects

A career in the healthcare industry is likely one of the safest options for those who want to enjoy a high level of job security (in addition to a high salary). There will always be a demand for healthcare workers (after all, people aren’t going to stop getting sick or injured, are they?). There’s a lot of opportunity for growth in the healthcare field, too, which is great news for those who want to continue learning over time.

👉 Browse Jobs in the Healthcare Industry in Australia

Top 5 Highest Paying Jobs in Australia for Fresh Graduates

The highest paying jobs in Australia for fresh graduates, in many cases, will be different from the highest paying jobs for experienced workers. After all, some of the best-paying jobs in the country aren’t accessible until after someone has gained some on-the-job experience.

However, there are still some careers that will provide a high salary right away. Here are 5 of the best-paid jobs in Australia that students who have recently graduated (or who are getting ready to graduate soon) ought to consider, especially if earning a generous salary is important to them:

1. Medicine

It takes a lot of schooling to land a career in medicine. At a minimum, to become a registered nurse, you’ll need around 4 years of schooling, whereas a surgeon requires 8 or more years, depending on their specialty.

It may take you a while to graduate, but when you do, a medical degree will yield you a very generous salary right out of the gate. All of the hard work you put in while in school will pay off, literally.

For example, the average starting salary for healthcare workers is A$70,000. That salary steadily increases over the years, too, as healthcare workers gain experience and seniority within the hospital or practise where they work.

👉 Browse Medical Jobs in Australia on GrabJobs

2. Dentistry

Another career that can provide a high salary right out of school is dentistry. As soon as you graduate from dental school, you can expect to earn an average starting salary of A$86,300. Within 3 years of graduating, that salary increases to an average of A$105,100.

Like medical professionals, dentists have to spend a lot of years in school training before they can start practising. Because they put so much time in upfront, though, they’re able to hit the ground running right when they graduate with a fairly high salary.

It may be frustrating at times when preparing for a career in dentistry, and there may be times when you feel as though your schooling will never end. It will, though, and you’ll likely be rewarded with a high-paying job when it does.

👉 Browse Dentistry Jobs in Australia on GrabJobs

3. Engineer

As you now know, engineering is one of the highest-paying industries in Australia. With this in mind, it makes sense that engineers would start earning a decent salary as soon as they leave school.

The starting salary for an engineer varies depending on the type of engineering degree that they pursue. For example, on the low end, an aerospace engineer will earn an average starting salary of around A$58,300. On the other end of the spectrum, civil engineers can earn around A$64,000 when they first graduate.

There’s a lot of room for growth within the engineering field, too. Within a few years, your salary will be much higher than it was when you started, and you may even have opportunities to transition into other, related positions, such as consulting or project management.  

👉 Browse Engineering Jobs in Australia on GrabJobs

4. Solicitor

Solicitors, once they graduate from school, can earn a very high salary right out of the gate. After all, the average starting salary for new graduates is A$98,396.

Solicitors don’t have to spend quite as much time in school as some of the other professionals on this list, either.

To become a lawyer in Australia, you’ll need to spend between 4 and 5 years on average to earn either a Bachelor of Law degree (or an LLB) or a Combined LLB. You’ll also need to complete practical legal training, which typically takes around one year (sometimes less).

The future growth projections for solicitors are very strong, which means there will likely be lots of jobs available in the future. For students who are considering a career in law, this is a particularly good point to consider.

👉 Browse Solicitor Jobs in Australia on GrabJobs

5. Construction Manager

Finally, construction managers can also earn a very good living right out of school, too. Once you graduate with a degree in construction management, which typically takes about 3-4 years, your average salary will be somewhere around A$99,386.

The construction industry is booming in Australia right now. This means there are lots of job opportunities for recent graduates.

You can increase your chances of getting hired even more by gaining some on-the-job experience as a management assistant before you graduate. This also gives you a chance to see whether or not construction management is the right fit for you.

👉 Browse Construction Jobs in Australia on GrabJobs

What Degree Pays the Most in Australia?

In many cases, earning a high-paying job in Australia starts with earning the right degree. In the table below, we’ve broken down some of the best degree types to consider if you want to enjoy a high starting salary as soon as you’re out of school:

As you can see, not all of these jobs will put you in the NZ$100,000-plus bracket right after you graduate from college. That doesn’t mean they’re not well-paying jobs with a lot of room for growth (and higher earnings) in the future, though.

Pursuing any of these degrees can still open a lot of doors for you. They may help you to start earning a high salary sooner than you (likely) would have if you were to take a different career path.

Degree Type

Potential Salary

Medical / Dental

Starting salary for new graduates is around A$70,000

Psychiatry

Starting salary for new graduates is around A$60,565

Engineering

Starting salary ranges from A$58,300 to A$67,000

Legal

Starting salary for new graduates is around A$98,396

Construction Management

Starting salary for new graduates is around A$99,386

It’s worth noting that these numbers are just estimates based on average earnings for new graduates. There are plenty of other degrees that can lead to well-paying jobs, these are just some of the most lucrative options that students might want to consider as they’re making plans for the future.

Land One of the Highest Paying Jobs in Australia Today

There you have it: The top 20 highest paying jobs in Australia. Whether you want to work in the healthcare field, engineering, or anything in between, there’s a lucrative job here for you.

Do any of these positions interest you? Are you thinking about pursuing one of the degrees mentioned above that are likely to lead to a high-paying job?

Keep the information discussed in this guide in mind so you can plan for the future and start searching for a job that sets you and your family up for long-term financial success.

If you want to simplify your job search even further, check out GrabJobs’s free job search tool makes it easier than ever to find open positions in your area.