If you’re considering migrating to Australia, one of the biggest questions on your mind is likely: “How much can I earn there?†As of June 2025, the answer depends heavily on your occupation.
In this article, we explore the most common Australian visa categories and break down the earning potential for each, especially for professionals in high-demand industries like healthcare, IT, and engineering.
🛂 Temporary Visas and Earning Potential
Subclass 482 Visa – Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS)
The Subclass 482 is a temporary visa for skilled workers sponsored by Australian employers.
- Minimum salary threshold (TSMIT): AUD $73,150/year (2024–25)
- Actual salaries often exceed this minimum:
- Nurses: AUD $80,000–$120,000
- Software Engineers: Up to $128,500
- AI/Machine Learning Experts: Up to $180,000
This visa can also act as a stepping stone to permanent residency through the Subclass 186 visa after two years with the same employer.
Subclass 500 Visa – Student Visa
The Subclass 500 allows international students to work while studying.
- Work rights: Up to 40 hours per fortnight during semesters; unlimited during breaks
- Hourly pay: AUD $20–$30
- Estimated annual income: AUD $20,000–$30,000
Although this visa doesn’t directly lead to PR, students often transition to Graduate Visas or Skilled Visas after completion of studies.
🌠Provisional Regional Visas
Subclass 491 – Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa
The Subclass 491 is designed for skilled migrants working in regional Australia.
- No fixed minimum salary, but wages must meet market standards
- Civil Engineers: AUD $90,000–$130,000
- Nurses/Teachers: AUD $75,000–$115,000
This visa leads to permanent residency after 3 years, provided income and residency requirements are met.
🡠Permanent Residency Visas
Subclass 186 – Employer Nomination Scheme
This visa allows skilled workers to obtain permanent residency through employer sponsorship.
- Minimum salary: AUD $73,150 (same as TSMIT)
- Bypass age limit (45+): If earning over AUD $175,000 (Fair Work High Income Threshold)
- Typical salaries:
- Nurses: AUD $80,000–$120,000
- IT Professionals/Data Scientists: AUD $100,000–$150,000
This visa offers long-term job security, government benefits, and freedom to settle permanently.
Subclass 189 – Skilled Independent Visa
A points-based permanent visa that does not require employer or state sponsorship.
- No fixed salary requirement, but occupation must be on the Skilled Occupation List
- Estimated salaries:
- Data Scientists: AUD $100,000–$150,000
- Psychologists: Up to $140,000
- Mental Health Workers: AUD $80,000–$130,000
This visa provides the flexibility to live and work anywhere in Australia.
Subclass 190 – Skilled Nominated Visa
Similar to the 189 visa, but requires state nomination and commitment to live in that state for at least 2 years.
- Teachers: AUD $75,000–$115,000
- Civil Engineers: Up to $130,000
- Renewable Energy Engineers: Up to $140,000
States may have different occupation lists and nomination conditions.
🔠High-Demand Occupations and Average Salaries (2025)
According to labor market trends in 2025, Australia is actively seeking skilled professionals across various industries:
| Occupation | Salary Range (AUD) |
| Nurses | $80,000 – $120,000 |
| Software Engineers | $100,000 – $128,500 |
| AI/Machine Learning Experts | $120,000 – $180,000 |
| Civil/Structural Engineers | $90,000 – $130,000 |
| Teachers (Early Childhood) | $75,000 – $115,000 |
| Mental Health Professionals | $80,000 – $130,000 |
| Psychologists | Up to $140,000 |
| Electricians/Carpenters | $60,000 – $100,000 |
| Childcare/Aged Care Workers | $55,000 – $90,000 |
Even though regional areas may offer slightly lower base salaries due to lower living costs, they come with added benefits like:
- Faster PR pathways
- Additional state nomination points
- Less competition
- Lower housing costs
✅ Final Thoughts: Know Your Visa, Know Your Worth
Australia offers a wide variety of migration pathways, each with its own earning potential, work rights, and residency opportunities.
Your potential income will depend on:
- Visa type
- Occupation & skill level
- Work location (metro vs regional)
- Years of experience
Before making the move, make sure to:
- Research the latest salary benchmarks
- Choose a visa pathway aligned with your long-term goals
- Stay updated through official government sources and reputable consultants
📢 Need Help Navigating Your Australian Migration Journey?
At Baasu, we help skilled individuals and students make informed migration decisions—from selecting the right visa to understanding your earning potential and career prospects in Australia.
📧 Email: contact@baasu.com
📞 Phone: +91 93820 50505
🌠Website: www.baasu.com
Follow us for more updates on Australian immigration, PR pathways, and job market insights.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is accurate as of the date of publication. Australian immigration laws, visa rules, and policies are subject to change, and readers are advised to verify the most current information through official Australian government sources for the latest updates and personalized advice.