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Painter and Decorator Salary in Sydney

Trades

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

Average Salary
$71,500
per year
Take-Home Pay
$57,832
after tax (no HECS)
Salary Range
$53-99k
$72K
$53K$99K

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 Sydney

Based on the average Painter and Decorator salary of $71,500 in Sydney, here's what you can expect to take home after tax, Medicare levy, and superannuation.

ComponentWithout HECSWith HECS
Gross Salary$71,500$71,500
Income Tax-$12,238-$12,238
Medicare Levy (2%)-$1,430-$1,430
HELP/HECS Repayment$0-$2,145
Superannuation (11%)+$7,865+$7,865
Annual Take-Home$57,832$55,687
Monthly Take-Home$4,819$4,641
Fortnightly Take-Home$2,224$2,142

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
$72,000
Take-home$57,832
Tax-$12,238
Super+$7,865

How to Become a Painter and Decorator

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

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
$39KEntry$72KMid$82KSenior$100KLead
Entry Level

Painting Apprentice

$39,325
estimated in Sydney
0-3 years
Mid Level

Qualified Painter

$71,500
estimated in Sydney
3-7 years
Senior Level

Lead Painter / Specialist

$82,225
estimated in Sydney
7-12 years
Leadership

Painting Contractor

$100,100
estimated in Sydney
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 Sydney

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

Entry Level
$27/hr
Average
$36/hr
Senior
$50/hr

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a Painter and Decorator earn in Sydney?

The average Painter and Decorator salary in Sydney is $71,500 per year, or approximately $36 per hour. Salaries range from $52,800 to $99,000 depending on experience.

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

A Painter and Decorator earning $71,500 in Sydney takes home approximately $57,832 per year after tax, or $4,819 per month. With a HECS debt, take-home drops to $55,687 per year.

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

Painter and Decorators in Sydney earn approximately $36 per hour on average, based on a 38-hour work week. Entry-level rates start around $27/hour, while senior professionals can earn up to $50/hour.

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

Sydney offers Painter and Decorator salaries among the highest in Australia at $71,500. The city has a cost of living index of 100 (Sydney = 100), meaning living costs are similar to Sydney.

About Painter and Decorator Salaries in Sydney

The average Painter and Decorator in Sydney, New South Wales earns $71,500 per year, or approximately $36 per hour. Salaries typically range from $52,800 for entry-level positions to $99,000 for senior roles with extensive experience.

After income tax, Medicare levy, and other deductions, a Painter and Decorator earning the average salary in Sydney can expect to take home approximately $57,832 per year, or $4,819 per month.

Sydney is home to approximately 5.3 million people and has a cost of living index of 100 (where Sydney = 100). This means living costs in Sydney are similar to Sydney.

Key Factors Affecting Painter and Decorator Salaries

  • Experience Level: Entry-level positions start around $52,800, while senior roles can reach $99,000.
  • Industry: Different industries offer varying compensation for Painter and Decorator roles.
  • Company Size: Larger companies typically offer higher salaries and more benefits.
  • Location: Sydney's cost of living influences salary expectations.
  • Hourly Rate: Based on a 38-hour week, Painter and Decorators earn $$27-$50 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.