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Painter and Decorator Salary in Geelong

Trades

Painters apply paint and finishes to buildings, structures, and other surfaces.

Average Salary
$56,550
per year
Take-Home Pay
$47,666
after tax (no HECS)
Salary Range
$42-78k
$57K
$42K$78K

Job Market Outlook

Low AI Risk

Physical or high-touch work with limited AI automation potential

Balanced

Job supply roughly matches candidate availability

+6% growth

Moderate projected employment growth over 5 years

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

Painter and Decorator Take-Home Pay Breakdown in Geelong

Based on the average Painter and Decorator salary of $56,550 in Geelong, here's what you can expect to take home after tax, Medicare levy, and superannuation.

ComponentWithout HECSWith HECS
Gross Salary$56,550$56,550
Income Tax-$7,753-$7,753
Medicare Levy (2%)-$1,131-$1,131
HELP/HECS Repayment$0-$566
Superannuation (11%)+$6,221+$6,221
Annual Take-Home$47,666$47,101
Monthly Take-Home$3,972$3,925
Fortnightly Take-Home$1,833$1,812

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
$57,000
Take-home$47,666
Tax-$7,753
Super+$6,221

How to Become a Painter and Decorator

Everything you need to know about breaking into a career as a Painter and Decorator in Victoria.

Qualifications Required

Essential Requirements
  • Certificate III in Painting and Decorating
  • White Card (construction induction)
  • Driver's license
Preferred Qualifications
  • Certificate IV in Building and Construction
  • Experience with spray painting
  • Wallpapering skills
Relevant Certifications
Working at heights certificationLead paint removal certificationAsbestos awareness

Career Progression

Salary Growth Trajectory
$31KEntry$57KMid$65KSenior$79KLead
Entry Level

Painting Apprentice

$31,103
estimated in Geelong
0-3 years
Mid Level

Qualified Painter

$56,550
estimated in Geelong
3-7 years
Senior Level

Lead Painter / Specialist

$65,032
estimated in Geelong
7-12 years
Leadership

Painting Contractor

$79,170
estimated in Geelong
10+ years

Skills in Demand

Spray painting techniquesCommercial and industrial coatingDecorative finishesHeight work (rope access)Wallpapering

Tips for Breaking In

  1. 1Commercial work often pays better than residential
  2. 2Develop spray painting skills for efficiency
  3. 3Build a reputation for quality and reliability
  4. 4Own business offers best earning potential
  5. 5Specialize in high-end decorative work for premium rates

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

Painter and Decorator Hourly Rate in Geelong

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

Entry Level
$21/hr
Average
$29/hr
Senior
$40/hr

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a Painter and Decorator earn in Geelong?

The average Painter and Decorator salary in Geelong is $56,550 per year, or approximately $29 per hour. Salaries range from $41,760 to $78,300 depending on experience.

What is the take-home pay for a Painter and Decorator in Geelong?

A Painter and Decorator earning $56,550 in Geelong takes home approximately $47,666 per year after tax, or $3,972 per month. With a HECS debt, take-home drops to $47,101 per year.

How much do Painter and Decorators make per hour in Geelong?

Painter and Decorators in Geelong earn approximately $29 per hour on average, based on a 38-hour work week. Entry-level rates start around $21/hour, while senior professionals can earn up to $40/hour.

Is Geelong a good place to work as a Painter and Decorator?

Geelong offers Painter and Decorator salaries below average in Australia at $56,550. The city has a cost of living index of 80 (Sydney = 100), meaning living costs are lower than Sydney.

About Painter and Decorator Salaries in Geelong

The average Painter and Decorator in Geelong, Victoria earns $56,550 per year, or approximately $29 per hour. Salaries typically range from $41,760 for entry-level positions to $78,300 for senior roles with extensive experience.

After income tax, Medicare levy, and other deductions, a Painter and Decorator earning the average salary in Geelong can expect to take home approximately $47,666 per year, or $3,972 per month.

Geelong is home to approximately 270,000 people and has a cost of living index of 80 (where Sydney = 100). This means living costs in Geelong are lower Sydney.

Key Factors Affecting Painter and Decorator Salaries

  • Experience Level: Entry-level positions start around $41,760, while senior roles can reach $78,300.
  • Industry: Different industries offer varying compensation for Painter and Decorator roles.
  • Company Size: Larger companies typically offer higher salaries and more benefits.
  • Location: Geelong's cost of living influences salary expectations.
  • Hourly Rate: Based on a 38-hour week, Painter and Decorators earn $$21-$40 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.