Environmental scientist salary: where it sits on the Australian salary index
See how the environmental scientist salary compares to the national line on the Australian salary index. Median weekly earnings, experience levels, and state differences explained.
Based on median full-time weekly earnings of $1,953, the environmental scientist salary sits at an index of about 94, slightly below the national line of 100.
What does "environmental scientist salary" mean?
When we talk about an environmental scientist salary, we're referring to the pay for professionals who study, develop, and advise on policies for managing and protecting the environment. This occupation group (ANZSCO 2343) includes conservation officers, environmental consultants, environmental research scientists, park rangers, and other environmental scientists not elsewhere classified. Most roles require a bachelor degree or higher (Skill Level 1).
Environmental scientists work across industries such as professional, scientific and technical services, public administration and safety, and arts and recreation services. About 85% work full-time, averaging 42 hours per week, with a median age of 39 and a 45% female share.
Where does the environmental scientist salary sit on the Australian salary index?
The Australian salary index sets 100 as the national line for full-time adult ordinary-time earnings. Based on the latest ABS Average Weekly Earnings (May 2026), that line is $2,083.70 per week, annualised to $108,352.
According to Jobs and Skills Australia, the median full-time weekly earnings for Environmental Scientists are $1,953. Annualised, that's $101,556. Dividing by the national line and multiplying by 100 gives an index of about 94.
This means the typical environmental scientist earns about 6% below the national ordinary-time benchmark. However, compared to the all-occupations median of $1,852 per week (index 85), environmental scientists are ahead. They sit in the middle band of Australian professional salaries.
PayScale's 2026 data shows an average base salary of AU$75,877, but that figure includes early-career and possibly part-time workers. The median from JSA is more reliable for full-time roles. The range from PayScale ($62k–$102k) aligns with the experience gradient.
How experience and location affect the environmental scientist salary
Experience has a clear impact. Entry-level environmental scientists (less than one year) earn around $59,652 total compensation according to PayScale. Early career (1–4 years) averages $72,390. Late-career professionals can reach $102k base salary. The JSA median of $1,953 per week likely reflects a mix of mid-career and experienced workers.
Location also matters. The salary index varies by state: Western Australia sits at 106.9, ACT at 109.9, while Tasmania is 88.6. Environmental scientists in WA or Canberra may earn more than those in Hobart. The Professional, Scientific and Technical Services industry has an index of 114.7, which is higher than the national line, but environmental scientists also work in public administration (index not specified) and arts/recreation (index lower).
Awards, super, and tax considerations
Environmental scientists are typically covered by the Professional Employees Award or a similar modern award, though many are employed under enterprise agreements or individual contracts. The national minimum wage from 1 July 2026 is $26.44 per hour ($1,004.90 per week, index 48.2). Award rates are generally higher. The Fair Work Ombudsman provides pay guides for specific classifications.
Superannuation guarantee is 12% from 1 July 2026, on top of base salary. For a median salary of $101,556, that adds $12,187 in super contributions (capped by the maximum contribution base of $270,830).
Tax for 2026–27 (resident, excluding Medicare) is nil on the first $18,200, then 15% up to $45,000, 30% up to $135,000, 37% up to $190,000, and 45% above. Medicare levy adds 2%. For a $101,556 salary, the estimated take-home pay (with tax-free threshold and Medicare) is roughly $75,000–$77,000, depending on deductions.
Putting it all together
The environmental scientist salary sits at an index of about 94 – slightly below the national line but above the all-occupations average. It's a solid professional income, especially for those with experience or in higher-paying states and industries. To see how your own pay compares, use the Salary Index calculator. For more on how different roles stack up, browse our topics or check state-by-state benchmarks on our states page.
Questions people ask
What is the average environmental scientist salary in Australia?
According to Jobs and Skills Australia, the median full-time weekly earnings for Environmental Scientists are $1,953, which annualises to about $101,556. PayScale reports an average base salary of AU$75,877, but this includes all experience levels and may reflect part-time roles. The figure you see depends on experience, location, and industry.
How does the environmental scientist salary compare to the national average?
The national full-time adult ordinary-time earnings benchmark (index 100) is $2,083.70 per week. Environmental scientists earn a median of $1,953 per week, giving an index of about 94. This is slightly below the national line but above the all-occupations median of $1,852. In other words, environmental scientists earn a little less than the typical full-time adult worker, but more than the average across all jobs.
What factors influence an environmental scientist's pay?
Experience is a major factor: entry-level scientists earn around $59k–$62k, while experienced professionals can reach $102k or more. Location matters too – states like Western Australia (index 106.9) and the ACT (109.9) tend to pay more, while Tasmania (88.6) pays less. Industry also plays a role; those in professional, scientific and technical services (index 114.7) may earn more than those in public administration. Additionally, holding a postgraduate qualification or specialist skills in areas like ecotoxicology or climate modelling can boost earnings.