Lawyer Salary in Australia

A$164,000Regional estimate

Lawyers in Australia earn a median salary of A$164,000 per year. The salary range typically falls between A$121,000 for the 25th percentile and A$221,000 for the 75th percentile, indicating a broad spectrum of earning potential.

Pay percentiles

Regional estimate
25th percentile
A$121,000
Median (p50)
A$164,000
75th percentile
A$221,000
Top 10% (p90)
A$292,000

Gross annual, local currency.

Salary by seniority

Estimated
JuniorA$98,000-40%
Mid-levelA$144,000-12%
SeniorA$205,000+25%
Lead / ExecA$287,000+75%

Total compensation

Base80%
Bonus8%
Equity4%
Benefits8%

Benefits are worth about A$19,500 a year on top of cash pay.

Where this pay goes furthest

The same package, in local cost-of-living terms, across markets.

How we calculate this

These figures represent a regional estimate for gross annual salaries for Lawyers in Australia. The data is based on a sample of reported salaries and should be considered a general guide, not an official benchmark.

Frequently asked questions

Is A$164,000 a good salary for a Lawyer in Australia?

Earning the median salary of A$164,000 places you in the middle of the earning spectrum for Lawyers in Australia. Given that the 75th percentile is A$221,000, this median indicates a solid earning potential within the profession.

How does a senior lawyer's salary compare to a junior lawyer's?

The median salary for a junior Lawyer is A$98,000. In contrast, a senior Lawyer has a higher median salary of A$205,000, reflecting the increased experience and responsibility typically associated with more senior roles.

What is the total compensation for a Lawyer?

Total compensation for a Lawyer includes base salary plus benefits. The estimated value of benefits per year is A$19,500, which should be considered alongside the base salary when evaluating total earnings.

How are Lawyer salaries calculated in Australia?

Lawyer salaries in Australia are influenced by factors like experience, specialization, location, and the size of the firm. The figures provided are based on reported salary data, with medians and percentiles illustrating the distribution of earnings.

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