Cyber Security Salary in Australia: Minimum Wage vs Median Earnings

Understanding the Cyber Security Salary Landscape

When researching a cyber security salary in Australia, it is important to separate the legal minimum from what workers actually earn. The term covers roles such as ICT Security Specialist (ANZSCO 262112), which falls under the broader occupation group of Database and Systems Administrators, and ICT Security Specialists. This guide explains the pay floor and how it compares with typical earnings.

The Legal Minimum Wage for Cyber Security Roles

The Fair Work Commission sets the national minimum wage, which from 1 July 2026 is $26.44 per hour or $1,004.90 per week for a full-time adult employee. This is the absolute floor for award-free employees. However, many cyber security positions are covered by a modern award or an enterprise agreement, which can require a higher rate.

For example, if a cyber security role falls under the Professional Employees Award or the Clerks Award, the minimum classification rate will be above the national minimum. The award backstop ensures that no ongoing classification rate drops below $26.44 per hour, and an introductory rate (first six months) cannot be less than $25.74 per hour or $978.10 per week. Always check the specific award that applies to your industry and role. You can use our Which minimum wage applies guide to determine coverage.

Median Cyber Security Salary: A Market Benchmark

According to Jobs and Skills Australia, which draws on ABS data, the median full-time weekly earnings for ICT Security Specialists (including cyber security) is $2,284. That translates to a median hourly rate of $59 for full-time non-managerial employees. This figure is a survey average, not a legal minimum. It reflects what experienced, full-time workers in the field typically earn.

It is important to note that this median excludes part-time workers, managers, and junior employees. Starting salaries for entry-level cyber security roles are often lower, while senior specialists can earn significantly more. The median is a useful benchmark but should not be confused with an entitlement.

Award Rates vs Negotiated Salaries

Award rates set the minimum for a classification, but many cyber security professionals are employed under enterprise agreements or individual contracts that offer higher pay. The Security Services Industry Award, for instance, covers security officers but not IT security specialists. Most cyber security roles are professional and likely fall under awards for clerical, administrative, or professional employees, or are award-free.

When negotiating a salary, remember that the superannuation guarantee of 12% is paid on top of ordinary time earnings. So a salary of $100,000 means the employer also contributes $12,000 to super. This is separate from the quoted pay rate.

How the Pay Floor Compares

The chart above shows the median weekly earnings of $2,284 against the national minimum weekly wage of $1,004.90. The median is more than double the minimum, reflecting the specialised skills and demand in cyber security. However, the minimum wage remains the legal safety net. No employee can be paid less than the applicable minimum, whether that is the national minimum or a higher award rate.

For award-free junior employees, the minimum is a percentage of the adult rate. For example, a 17-year-old in cyber security (if award-free) would be entitled to 57.8% of $26.44, or $15.29 per hour. Casual employees receive a 25% loading on top of the minimum hourly rate.

Practical Steps for Employers and Employees

• Check if a modern award covers the role. Use the Fair Work Ombudsman's tools or our Rate tables for guidance.
• If award-free, the national minimum wage applies, but you can negotiate higher.
• Always factor in super as an additional employer cost.
• Remember that enterprise agreements can set different rates, but they must pass the better-off overall test.

For more detail on how these figures are calculated, see our How the figures work page.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the minimum wage for a cyber security job?

At least the national minimum wage of $26.44 per hour (or $1,004.90 per week) for award-free adults, but many are covered by awards or agreements that set higher rates.

How does the median cyber security salary compare?

The median full-time hourly rate is $59, and weekly $2,284, well above the minimum.

Do cyber security workers get super?

Yes, super guarantee of 12% is paid on top of ordinary time earnings.