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High-Paying Jobs in Australia: Insights from the Hays Salary Guide 2025-26
A recent survey from Hays has shed light on the most lucrative careers in Australia, revealing that certain roles can command salaries exceeding $700,000 per year.
According to the Hays Salary Guide for 2025-26, which surveyed more than 12,000 professionals and hiring managers, the national average salary stands at $141,900. Notably, nearly two-thirds of Australian employees are contemplating leaving their jobs in pursuit of improved pay, benefits, and career prospects.
Key Findings
Matthew Dickason, CEO of Hays APAC, noted that the data reflects distinct disparities in salary scales across various industries, with some sectors poised to increase their remuneration further.
Highest Salaries
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CEO and Managing Directors: Typically earn over $700,000 in organisations with revenues exceeding $500 million. For companies earning between $50 million and $500 million, salaries range from $400,000 to $700,000.
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Chief Operating Officers and Chief Financial Officers: Command salaries exceeding $600,000 in large companies, whereas salaries for CEOs in not-for-profit organisations can reach $500,000.
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Heads of Treasury in Sydney: Can earn up to $410,000, while their Melbourne counterparts can expect $300,000. Heads of Tax also earn around $400,000.
- General Sales Managers (especially in Consumer Goods): Achieve salaries up to $400,000, with Vice Presidents of Sales in IT and Telecoms earning up to $350,000.
Here’s a snapshot of the top ten highest-paying jobs and their corresponding maximum typical earnings:
| Rank | Job Title | Maximum Salary |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | CEO and Managing Director | $700,000+ |
| 2 | Head of Treasury | $410,000 |
| 3 | General Manager of Sales / Sales Director | $400,000 |
| 4 | Head of HR / HR Director | $400,000 |
| 5 | Commercial Construction Manager | $400,000 |
| 6 | Property Development Director | $388,000 |
| 7 | Chief Information Officer | $375,000 |
| 8 | Defence Operations Director | $360,000 |
| 9 | Head of Quantitative Risk in Banking and Finance | $350,000 |
| 10 | Mining Jumbo Operator | $330,000 |
Location Notes: Most salaries reported are for roles based in Sydney; however, variations may arise based on specific roles in Victoria, Western Australia, and the Northern Territory. Company size and tenure in the role can also influence salaries significantly.
Salary Growth Trends
The report further highlights sectors experiencing the highest year-on-year salary growth:
- Financial and Insurance Services: 12.9% growth
- Construction: 11.7%
- IT/Tech System Design: 9.6%
- Legal: 7.8%
- Mining: 6.9%
Geographically, Queensland recorded the strongest increase, with average salaries rising by 5.6% to $139,000. New South Wales reported average salaries of $143,800, correlating with the national increase of 5.1%, while Victoria’s average sits at $142,300. Western Australia boasts the highest average salary at $147,200.
This data underscores not only the lucrative potential of certain careers in Australia but also the ongoing shifts within the job market as professionals seek attractive employment packages.
