Graduate Scheme Salary in Australia 🇦🇺 (2026)

Median graduate scheme salary in Australia is A$68k. Junior roles (0–2 years) start at A$58k; senior roles (7+ years) reach A$85k+. Numbers reflect 2026 Australian market data.

Graduate schemes in Australia typically start at AUD $55,000–$65,000 annually, with variation depending on industry and employer size. Major banks and consulting firms often sit at the higher end, while smaller companies may offer entry points closer to $50,000. This salary reflects the reality that you're being trained and assessed during your first year—employer investment in your development is built into the compensation structure. The good news: most schemes include structured pay reviews, and completing the program successfully often unlocks a 10–15% bump when transitioning to permanent roles. Location matters too; Sydney and Melbourne positions typically exceed Brisbane or Adelaide equivalents by 5–8%. Beyond base salary, factor in superannuation (usually 11–12%), professional development budgets, and potential bonuses tied to performance. If you're evaluating specific opportunities, the structured listings below show real graduate positions with transparent salary bands to help you benchmark what's currently on offer.

Graduate Scheme Salary Bands by Experience

LevelYearsSalary (median)10th–90th percentile
Junior0–2A$58kA$49k – A$70k
Mid-level3–6A$68kA$58k – A$82k
Senior7+A$85kA$72k – A$119k

How to Negotiate Above the Median

  1. Anchor with the senior band. When asked for expectations, reference the 7+ years salary range as your target.
  2. Bring a number, not a range. Ranges signal flexibility downward.
  3. Decouple base from total comp. Bonus, equity, and benefits are negotiation levers when base is fixed.
  4. Use Smart Job Matcher to gather 3 competing offers and use them as anchors.

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