SLSO Salary NSW: What School Learning Support Officers Earn in 2026–27

What is an SLSO in NSW?

A School Learning Support Officer (SLSO) works in NSW public schools to assist students with additional learning needs. SLSOs support teachers in the classroom, help with individual or small‑group activities, and contribute to a positive learning environment. The role is distinct from a teacher’s aide or integration aide, though duties can overlap. SLSOs are employed by the NSW Department of Education and are covered by a specific state award.

How SLSO Pay is Set

SLSO salaries in NSW are determined by the Crown Employees (School Learning Support Officers) Award. This award sets minimum hourly rates for four classification levels (1 to 4), with higher levels requiring more experience or qualifications. The award is updated periodically by the NSW Industrial Relations Commission. From 1 July 2026, award minima rose by 4.75%, consistent with the national minimum wage increase. The entry‑level award floor across all modern awards is $25.74 per hour, but SLSO rates are typically higher due to the specific classification structure.

Many SLSOs work school terms only, often part‑time or on a casual basis. Casual SLSOs receive a 25% loading in lieu of paid leave. Permanent part‑time SLSOs have their pay pro‑rated based on hours worked. Because of these variations, annualised salaries can differ significantly even within the same classification.

SLSO Salary Compared to the National Index

The Salary Index measures gross yearly earnings against the national line of 100, which equals $108,352 (based on ABS Average Weekly Earnings for May 2026). The index for NSW is 101.2, meaning full‑time adult ordinary‑time earnings in NSW are slightly above the national average. However, SLSO roles are not typical full‑time professional positions. A full‑time SLSO at Level 1 might earn around $65,000 per year. To find the index: divide $65,000 by $108,352 and multiply by 100, giving an index of about 60. This places SLSO pay well below the national average, reflecting the role’s classification and the fact that many SLSOs work fewer than 38 hours per week.

It is important to note that the index is a benchmark for full‑time adult ordinary‑time earnings. Part‑time or casual SLSOs will have a lower index because their annualised pay is lower. For a more detailed breakdown of how the index works, see how the index works.

Superannuation for SLSOs

From 1 July 2026, the super guarantee is 12% of ordinary time earnings, up to a maximum contribution base of $270,830. SLSOs employed under the award are entitled to super on their base salary. For a full‑time SLSO earning $65,000, the employer must contribute $7,800 per year in super. Casual SLSOs also receive super on their casual loading. Super is in addition to the salary, so it is not included in the index calculation (which uses gross ordinary‑time earnings before super).

Tax on SLSO Earnings

SLSO pay is subject to Australian resident tax rates for 2026–27. The tax‑free threshold is $18,200. Income between $18,201 and $45,000 is taxed at 15%, then 30% up to $135,000, 37% up to $190,000, and 45% above that. A 2% Medicare levy applies to most residents. For example, an SLSO earning $65,000 would pay:

• $0 on the first $18,200
• 15% on $26,800 ($4,020)
• 30% on $20,000 ($6,000) Total tax: $10,020. Medicare levy: $1,300. After tax and Medicare, take‑home pay is about $53,680. This ignores HELP repayments, salary sacrifice, or the Medicare levy surcharge. For more on state‑by‑state comparisons, see the states page.

Take‑Home Pay Estimate for an SLSO in NSW

Using the hypothetical $65,000 annual salary, the weekly gross is $1,250. After tax and Medicare, the weekly take‑home is roughly $1,032. This is a resident estimate using the tax‑free threshold and a flat 2% Medicare levy. Actual take‑home may differ if the SLSO has HELP debt, salary sacrifice arrangements, or a spouse’s income affecting the Medicare levy surcharge.

Other Considerations

• Junior rates: SLSOs under 21 may be paid a percentage of the adult rate, as set by the award. The national minimum wage order sets junior percentages (e.g., 18‑year‑olds at $18.06/hr), but the SLSO award may have its own scale.
• Casual loading: Casual SLSOs receive 25% on top of the base hourly rate. This loading is included in ordinary time earnings for super and tax purposes.
• Award vs. enterprise agreements: Some NSW schools may have enterprise agreements that offer higher pay than the award. Check your specific employment contract.

For a broader view of how different roles compare, see the pay guides and industries pages. The topics page also covers related roles in education and training.

Summary

The slso salary nsw is not a single figure, but it is shaped by the Crown Employees Award, classification level, and hours worked. While the national index for NSW is 101.2, a typical full‑time SLSO likely earns an index around 60, reflecting the role’s support classification. Superannuation at 12% and progressive tax rates apply. For the most accurate pay, refer to your award classification or contact the NSW Department of Education.