Pay Packets on the Rise

In 2025, Australian workers are seeing positive movement in salaries—welcome news amid ongoing cost-of-living pressures. With inflation, housing, and fuel prices impacting day-to-day expenses, employees are understandably focused on whether their pay is keeping pace.

The latest Hays Salary Guide and Labour Market Insights data reveal that while wage growth isn’t uniform across all sectors, certain industries and job roles are outpacing others in both pay increases and demand.

Wage Growth in 2025: The National Picture

According to Hays, more than 65% of Australian employers plan to increase salaries by at least 3–6% this year, with 15% planning rises above 6%. And it’s not just base salaries growing—more companies are offering performance bonuses, flexible work arrangements, and career development as part of total reward strategies.

In-demand professionals with digital, engineering, or leadership expertise are often commanding above-market rates, especially in sectors facing talent shortages.

Top Industries for Salary Growth in 2025

1. Technology & Cybersecurity

Roles in IT support, cloud infrastructure, and cybersecurity remain highly sought after. Entry-level cybersecurity analysts are earning between $75,000–$95,000, while experienced specialists can fetch $140,000+ annually. Demand is driven by digital transformation and a sharp focus on data security.

Explore cybersecurity courses and IT qualifications.

2. Construction & Engineering

Major infrastructure projects across NSW, Victoria, and Queensland have pushed salaries for civil engineers, project managers, and site supervisors upward. Senior engineers are reporting 8–12% salary increases year-on-year.

Get started with a civil engineering qualification or project management certification.

3. Healthcare & Allied Health

The aged care, mental health, and nursing sectors continue to be under pressure, leading to increased pay for registered nurses, mental health professionals, and care coordinators. Community services and NDIS-related roles are also seeing sustained demand.

Interested? Browse mental health support training and aged care courses.

4. Mining & Resources

Despite market volatility, mining engineers, geologists, and environmental scientists remain well-compensated. FIFO packages and remote allowances add to competitive base salaries, particularly in Western Australia and regional Queensland.

5. Legal, Finance & Risk Management

Risk analysts, compliance managers, and forensic accountants are in high demand due to tighter regulatory oversight and economic complexity. Meanwhile, in-house counsel and legal advisors are commanding generous bonuses and flexible contracts.

Roles with the Highest Salary Growth

Based on Hays’ 2025 insights, here are standout roles with strong salary growth:

• Cybersecurity Analyst: Up to 15% year-on-year increase
• Infrastructure Project Manager: Salary packages exceeding $180,000 in capital cities
• Data Analyst (mid-level): From $100,000 to $130,000
• Registered Nurse (regional areas): Up to 10% increases with relocation incentives
• Transport & Logistics Manager: Strong demand due to e-commerce growth

Salary growth also remains strong for qualified tradespeople, particularly electricians, fitters, and diesel mechanics, as the skills shortage persists.

Beyond the Pay Packet: Total Rewards Matter

In today’s market, salary is just one piece of the puzzle. Many employers are improving their employee value proposition with:

• Remote and hybrid work flexibility
• Performance-based bonuses
• Learning and development budgets
• Wellbeing and mental health initiatives

For example, professionals in law and finance may see stable base salaries but increasingly generous sign-on bonuses and tailored benefit packages.

Career Moves That Boost Your Earning Potential

If your salary isn’t growing as fast as you’d like, consider upskilling or pivoting into an in-demand field. Start with:

• Business and leadership courses
• Finance and accounting courses
• Technology and data analytics training
• Health and community services qualifications

Strategic career moves—combined with certifications and market-aligned skills—can significantly accelerate your pay progression.

The Market Rewards Adaptability

While not every sector is booming, overall job market sentiment remains positive. Employers are willing to invest in talent—especially those who can demonstrate future-ready skills and a growth mindset.

So whether you’re negotiating your next pay review or plotting a career shift, now is the time to reassess your goals and align them with where the demand is rising.