Data Scientist Salary: Award Coverage vs Award-Free Rates

Data Scientist Salary: Understanding the Pay Floor

When researching a data scientist salary in Australia, the first question is which legal minimum applies. Unlike some occupations with a dedicated modern award, data scientists are often covered by the Professional Employees Award or may be award-free. This guide explains the difference and how to compare a salary against the correct floor.

Award Coverage for Data Scientists

Data scientists typically fall under the Professional Employees Award if their role involves professional-level analytical work. This award sets minimum rates for classifications such as “Professional Employee Level 1” through to “Level 4”. The actual rate depends on the employee’s qualifications and experience. Because the award rates are updated each year (from 1 July 2026, a 4.75% increase applies), the minimum can be higher than the national minimum wage. For example, a Level 1 professional employee under that award may earn more than $26.44 per hour.

If the role is not covered by any award (for instance, a data scientist working in a management or executive capacity), the National Minimum Wage applies. As of 1 July 2026, that is $26.44 per hour or $1,004.90 per week for a full-time adult employee. Casual employees receive a 25% loading, making the minimum $33.05 per hour.

Award-Free Data Scientists: The National Minimum

For award-free data scientists, the legal minimum is straightforward: the national minimum wage. However, note that junior employees (under 21), apprentices, trainees, and employees on introductory rates may be paid less. For example, a 19-year-old award-free junior is entitled to 82.5% of the adult rate, or $21.82 per hour (casual $27.28). Always check the specific category.

Enterprise Agreements and Negotiated Salaries

Many data scientists are employed under enterprise agreements or individual contracts that set a salary above the award or national minimum. These agreements must still meet the base rate of the relevant award. A negotiated salary is often expressed as an annual package, which includes the base salary plus superannuation. Remember that super (12% from 1 July 2026) is an employer contribution on top of the salary, not part of the quoted figure.

How Does the Data Scientist Salary Compare to Averages?

The Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) reported in May 2026 that full-time adult ordinary-time earnings averaged $2,083.70 per week. This is a broad average across all occupations, not specific to data scientists. A data scientist salary may be higher or lower depending on experience, industry, and location. Without a dedicated survey from the ABS or a named award, we cannot provide a precise median for data scientists. Always consult industry-specific surveys or the Fair Work Ombudsman’s resources for your situation.

Using This Site’s Tools

To determine which pay floor applies to you, start with our Which minimum wage applies guide. It walks you through award coverage, junior rates, and casual loadings. For a quick comparison of current rates, see our Rate tables. These tables show the national minimum, award rates (where available), and historical changes.

Key Takeaways

• The legal minimum for a data scientist is either the national minimum wage ($26.44/h) or a higher award rate (e.g., under the Professional Employees Award).
• Superannuation of 12% is paid on top of the salary.
• Enterprise agreements and individual contracts can set higher rates.
• The ABS average full-time earnings ($2,083.70/week) is a reference point, not a data scientist-specific figure.

For more detail on how we calculate rates and the legal framework, visit our How the figures work page.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the minimum wage for a data scientist in Australia? The minimum depends on award coverage. If covered by an award like the Professional Employees Award, the minimum rate is set by that award (often higher than the national minimum). If award-free, the national minimum wage of $26.44 per hour (or $1,004.90 per week) applies from 1 July 2026. Junior, apprentice, or introductory rates may be lower.

Do data scientists get superannuation on top of their salary? Yes. Employers must pay the super guarantee (12% from 1 July 2026) on top of ordinary time earnings. This is an additional payment, not deducted from the salary figure.

How can I find out which award applies to a data scientist role? Use the Fair Work Ombudsman's Pay and Conditions Tool or check the coverage clause of awards such as the Professional Employees Award. If no award applies, the national minimum wage is the floor. An enterprise agreement may set higher rates.