Discover which fields offer the highest paying jobs and make informed decisions about your future career

To view the line chart of weekly wages, simply switch to that option.

The bar chart shows the median weekly wages for different skill levels in different industries in Australia from 2014 to 2022.

What do the different skill levels mean?

Skill level
1
Occupations at Skill Level 1 have a level of skill commensurate with a bachelor degree or higher qualification. At least five years of relevant experience may substitute for the formal qualification. In some instances relevant experience and/or on-the-job training may be required in addition to the formal qualification.
Skill level
2
  • Occupations at Skill Level 2 have a level of skill commensurate with one of the following:
  • - NZ Register Diploma or
  • - AQF Associate Degree, Advanced Diploma or Diploma.
  • At least three years of relevant experience may substitute for the formal qualifications listed above. In some instances relevant experience and/or on-the-job training may be required in addition to the formal qualification.
Skill level
3
  • Occupations at Skill Level 3 have a level of skill commensurate with one of the following:
  • - NZ Register Level 4 qualification
  • - AQF Certificate IV or
  • - AQF Certificate III including at least two years of on-the-job training.
  • At least three years of relevant experience may substitute for the formal qualifications listed above. In some instances relevant experience and/or on-the-job training may be required in addition to the formal qualification.
Skill level
4
  • Occupations at Skill Level 4 have a level of skill commensurate with one of the following:
  • - NZ Register Level 2 or 3 qualification or
  • - AQF Certificate II or III.
  • At least one year of relevant experience may substitute for the formal qualifications listed above. In some instances relevant experience may be required in addition to the formal qualification.
Skill level
5
  • Occupations at Skill Level 5 have a level of skill commensurate with one of the following:
  • - NZ Register Level 1 qualification
  • - AQF Certificate I or
  • - compulsory secondary education.
  • For some occupations a short period of on-the-job training may be required in addition to or instead of the formal qualification

By understanding the relationship between skill level and wage, you can make informed decisions about which industry and occupation to pursue to increase your earning potential and land your dream job. Now you can further explore the CAREER PATHWAY that interests you!