What's your pay rate?
Your Pay Breakdown
Gross Income
Net Income
How Australian Income Tax Works
Australian tax is calculated progressively, meaning you pay different rates on different portions of your income. Here are the current tax brackets for 2024â25:
Taxable Income | Tax Rate | Example Take-Home* |
---|---|---|
$0 â $18,200 | 0% | $18,200 |
$18,201 â $45,000 | 16% | $40,712 |
$45,001 â $135,000 | 30% | $63,000 |
$135,001 â $190,000 | 37% | $91,000 |
$190,001+ | 45% | Variable |
*Note: Example take-home values are for illustration and do not include the Medicare levy or other deductions.
Medicare levy: Most Australians pay an additional 2% Medicare levy on taxable income.
For more details, visit the ATOâs income and deductions guide.
FAQs: Your Burning Pay Questions
Got questions about your pay, tax, or super? Find answers to the most common queries below.
Q: How is take-home pay calculated in Australia?
A: Take-home pay is your gross income minus tax, Medicare levy, and any HECS/HELP repayments. Use our calculator to see your net pay instantly.
Q: What is the Medicare levy in Australia?
A: The Medicare levy is a 2% tax paid by most Australians to fund public healthcare. Some higher earners pay an additional Medicare levy surcharge.
Q: How does HECS/HELP repayment work?
A: HECS/HELP is a government loan for study. You repay it once your income reaches a certain threshold. The ATO calculates your repayment based on your taxable income.
Q: How do I include superannuation in my pay calculations?
A: Tick âInclude Superannuationâ in the calculator to see your total package, which includes your employerâs super contributions (currently 11.5% of your ordinary earnings).
Q: Why is my employer withholding more tax than I owe?
A: Employers use ATO tax tables, which often withhold more than youâll owe. Youâll get a refund when you lodge your tax return.
Q: What if my income changes during the year?
A: If your income rises and you cross a HECS/HELP threshold, you might need to pay more tax at tax time. Adjust your PAYG withholding to avoid surprises.
Q: How do I claim tax deductions in Australia?
A: Keep receipts for work-related expenses like uniforms, tools, or home office costs, and claim them in your tax return.
Q: What happens if I donât lodge a tax return in Australia?
A: You may face penalties from the ATO. If youâre owed a refund, you wonât get it until you lodge.
Q: How do I find my TFN (Tax File Number)?
A: Check your payslip, myGov account, or contact the ATO if youâve lost it.
Q: What is the tax-free threshold in Australia?
A: The first $18,200 you earn each year is tax-free if youâre an Australian resident.
Q: How do I get a tax refund in Australia?
A: Lodge your tax return online via myGov. If youâve paid too much tax, youâll get a refund.
Q: How do I find lost or unclaimed superannuation?
A: Use the ATOâs lost super search to check if you have any unclaimed super.
How Does Your Pay Compare?
Ever wondered if your pay is above or below average? Our calculator compares your salary to national and industry benchmarks. Just select your occupation for a personalised comparison!
The average full-time salary in Australia is around $85,000, but this varies widely by job and location. Check out how your pay stacks upâyou might be pleasantly surprised!
Superannuation: Your Future Pay
Superannuation (or âsuperâ) is your retirement savings, paid by your employer. In 2024â25, your employer must contribute at least 11.5% of your ordinary earnings into your super fund.
Super is taxed at a lower rate than your regular income, making it a smart way to save for retirement.
Did you know? Thereâs $16 billion in lost or unclaimed super across Australiaâmake sure none of it is yours! Use the ATOâs lost super search to check.
From Shillings to Super: A Quick Pay History
Explore how Australian wages have changed over timeâfrom shillings to superannuation!
Married couple: ÂŁ36â40/year (13s 10d to 15s 5d per week)
Pastoral era, basic living
First basic wage: ÂŁ2 2s/week (~$471 today)
Harvester Judgment, foundational rights
Basic wage: ÂŁ6/week (~$500 today)
Post-war boom, growing middle class
Minimum wage: $980/week
Modern workforce, global standards
Fun Fact: In 1920, a factory worker could buy a loaf of bread for just 3 pence (about 3 cents today)!
Did You Know?
How much do you think a teacher earned in 1950? Share your guess in the feedback form!
Want more? Check out the State Library of Victoriaâs wage history or the Fair Work Commissionâs history of the minimum wage.
Disclaimer: This calculator provides general estimates of salary, tax, and take-home pay based on the information you enter and current Australian tax rates. Salary figures are indicative and sourced from ABS 2024 and industry estimates. Results are for guidance only and may not reflect your actual tax or income. For accurate advice, consult the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) or a qualified financial adviser. This tool is not endorsed by the ATO.