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Data Scientist Salary in Canberra

Technology

Data scientists use advanced analytics and machine learning to extract insights from complex datasets.

Average Salary
$151,200
per year
Take-Home Pay
$108,626
after tax (no HECS)
Salary Range
$103-216k
$151K
$103K$216K

Job Market Outlook

High AI Risk

Knowledge work with significant AI applicability

In Demand

More jobs than qualified candidates in Australia

+35% growth

Strong projected employment growth over 5 years

Sources: Microsoft Research 2025, Jobs and Skills Australia 2025 Occupation Shortage List

Data Scientist Take-Home Pay Breakdown in Canberra

Based on the average Data Scientist salary of $151,200 in Canberra, here's what you can expect to take home after tax, Medicare levy, and superannuation.

ComponentWithout HECSWith HECS
Gross Salary$151,200$151,200
Income Tax-$37,282-$37,282
Medicare Levy (2%)-$3,024-$3,024
HELP/HECS Repayment$0-$9,072
Superannuation (11%)+$16,632+$16,632
Annual Take-Home$108,626$99,554
Monthly Take-Home$9,052$8,296
Fortnightly Take-Home$4,178$3,829

Calculate Your Exact Take-Home Pay

Enter your actual salary to see a personalized breakdown including your specific tax situation, HECS debt, and family status.

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Your salary
$151,000
Take-home$108,626
Tax-$37,282
Super+$16,632

How to Become a Data Scientist

Everything you need to know about breaking into a career as a Data Scientist in Australian Capital Territory.

Qualifications Required

Essential Requirements
  • Master's or PhD in Data Science, Statistics, Computer Science, or related field
  • Strong programming skills in Python and R
  • Expertise in machine learning algorithms
Preferred Qualifications
  • PhD with research experience in ML/AI
  • Industry experience in data analysis or engineering
  • Published research or patents
Relevant Certifications
AWS Certified Machine Learning SpecialtyGoogle Professional Machine Learning EngineerTensorFlow Developer Certificate

Career Progression

Salary Growth Trajectory
$106KEntry$151KMid$204KSenior$242KLead
Entry Level

Junior Data Scientist

$105,840
estimated in Canberra
0-2 years
Mid Level

Data Scientist

$151,200
estimated in Canberra
2-5 years
Senior Level

Senior Data Scientist

$204,120
estimated in Canberra
5-8 years
Leadership

Principal Data Scientist / ML Director

$241,920
estimated in Canberra
8+ years

Skills in Demand

Deep learning (PyTorch, TensorFlow)Large Language ModelsMLOps and model deploymentStatistical modelingData engineering

Tips for Breaking In

  1. 1Build a portfolio of ML projects with measurable business impact
  2. 2Contribute to open-source ML projects
  3. 3Stay current with rapid advances in AI and LLMs
  4. 4Develop strong communication skills to explain models to stakeholders
  5. 5Consider domain specialization (healthcare, finance, etc.)

Career information is general guidance based on industry standards. Requirements may vary by employer and location.

Data Scientist Hourly Rate in Canberra

Based on a standard 38-hour work week (Australian full-time hours):

Entry Level
$52/hr
Average
$77/hr
Senior
$109/hr

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a Data Scientist earn in Canberra?

The average Data Scientist salary in Canberra is $151,200 per year, or approximately $77 per hour. Salaries range from $102,600 to $216,000 depending on experience.

What is the take-home pay for a Data Scientist in Canberra?

A Data Scientist earning $151,200 in Canberra takes home approximately $108,626 per year after tax, or $9,052 per month. With a HECS debt, take-home drops to $99,554 per year.

How much do Data Scientists make per hour in Canberra?

Data Scientists in Canberra earn approximately $77 per hour on average, based on a 38-hour work week. Entry-level rates start around $52/hour, while senior professionals can earn up to $109/hour.

Is Canberra a good place to work as a Data Scientist?

Canberra offers Data Scientist salaries among the highest in Australia at $151,200. The city has a cost of living index of 92 (Sydney = 100), meaning living costs are lower than Sydney.

About Data Scientist Salaries in Canberra

The average Data Scientist in Canberra, Australian Capital Territory earns $151,200 per year, or approximately $77 per hour. Salaries typically range from $102,600 for entry-level positions to $216,000 for senior roles with extensive experience.

After income tax, Medicare levy, and other deductions, a Data Scientist earning the average salary in Canberra can expect to take home approximately $108,626 per year, or $9,052 per month.

Canberra is home to approximately 460,000 people and has a cost of living index of 92 (where Sydney = 100). This means living costs in Canberra are lower Sydney.

Key Factors Affecting Data Scientist Salaries

  • Experience Level: Entry-level positions start around $102,600, while senior roles can reach $216,000.
  • Industry: Different industries offer varying compensation for Data Scientist roles.
  • Company Size: Larger companies typically offer higher salaries and more benefits.
  • Location: Canberra's cost of living influences salary expectations.
  • Hourly Rate: Based on a 38-hour week, Data Scientists earn $$52-$109 per hour.

Salary data is based on industry reports, job postings, and government statistics. Individual salaries may vary based on experience, qualifications, and employer. Tax calculations are estimates for the 2024-25 financial year.