ATO Unveils Top Earning Careers Not Requiring a University Degree: ‘$130,000 Annually’

Highest-Paying Jobs in Australia Without a University Degree

The latest insights from the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) unveil the top-paying careers in Australia that do not necessitate a university degree. Compiled from tax return data spanning millions of Australians, the findings highlight opportunities for lucrative employment without the traditional academic route, with the highest-paying job averaging over $130,000 annually.

Top-Grossing Occupations

1. Drillers, Miners, and Shot Firers: Topping the list, these professionals earn an average salary of $133,873. The role entails operating drilling rigs and mining machinery and managing explosives for extraction and demolition tasks. Entry typically requires a Certificate II or III and at least one year of relevant experience, with coal miners earning even more—on average, $135,077.

2. Train or Tram Drivers: Commanding an average of $132,938, these drivers are responsible for transporting passengers and managing rail operations. A vocational qualification, such as a Certificate III in light rail driving or a Certificate IV in train driving, is usually required. Train drivers specifically average $137,694, while tram drivers earn around $101,570.

3. Electrical Distribution Trades Workers: Rounding out the top three, these electricians average $128,851. Professionals in this category, including electrical linesworkers and technical cable jointers, typically require a Certificate III and at least two years of hands-on training. Electrical linesworkers earn approximately $130,987, while technical cable jointers make about $96,199.

The data referenced reflects tax returns from the 2022-23 financial year, focusing on jobs defined by the Australian Bureau of Statistics as not necessitating a Bachelor’s degree. Instead, these high-paying positions often require vocational qualifications or substantial relevant experience.

Top 10 Highest-Paying Non-University Jobs

1. Driller, Miner, or Shot Firer: $133,873
2. Train or Tram Driver: $132,938
3. Electrical Distribution Trades Worker: $128,851
4. Other Hospitality, Retail or Service Manager: $127,106
5. Practice Manager: $124,226
6. Crane, Hoist or Lift Operator: $121,782
7. Insurance Investigator, Loss Adjuster or Risk Surveyor: $117,005
8. Police: $114,929
9. Safety Inspector: $114,498
10. Fire or Emergency Service Worker: $114,290

Broader Context of Earnings

Comparatively, the ATO has highlighted the most lucrative professions overall, with surgeons leading the pack at an impressive average income of $472,475, followed by anaesthetists at $447,193. The average annual income for Australians during the fiscal year stood at $74,240, with a median income of $55,868.

This analysis underscores the evolving employment landscape in Australia, showcasing that opportunities for high-paying jobs extend beyond traditional degrees, particularly in sectors like mining, transportation, and trades, providing alternative pathways to financial success.