Security Guard Salary in Canberra
Public Safety
Security guards protect premises, assets, and people from theft and harm.
Job Market Outlook
Physical or high-touch work with limited AI automation potential
Job supply roughly matches candidate availability
Moderate projected employment growth over 5 years
Sources: Microsoft Research 2025, Jobs and Skills Australia 2025 Occupation Shortage List
Security Guard Take-Home Pay Breakdown in Canberra
Based on the average Security Guard salary of $59,400 in Canberra, here's what you can expect to take home after tax, Medicare levy, and superannuation.
| Component | Without HECS | With HECS |
|---|---|---|
| Gross Salary | $59,400 | $59,400 |
| Income Tax | -$8,608 | -$8,608 |
| Medicare Levy (2%) | -$1,188 | -$1,188 |
| HELP/HECS Repayment | $0 | -$1,188 |
| Superannuation (11%) | +$6,534 | +$6,534 |
| Annual Take-Home | $49,604 | $48,416 |
| Monthly Take-Home | $4,134 | $4,035 |
| Fortnightly Take-Home | $1,908 | $1,862 |
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How to Become a Security Guard
Everything you need to know about breaking into a career as a Security Guard in Australian Capital Territory.
Qualifications Required
- Security license for your state/territory
- First aid certificate
- National Police Check
- Certificate II or III in Security Operations
- Driver's license
- Previous security or military experience
Career Progression
Security Guard
Senior Security Officer
Site Supervisor
Security Manager / Consultant
Skills in Demand
Tips for Breaking In
- 1Corporate and mining security pays better
- 2Get additional certifications for higher pay roles
- 3Consider close personal protection for premium earnings
- 4Night shift and weekend work pays penalty rates
- 5Build skills for security management progression
Career information is general guidance based on industry standards. Requirements may vary by employer and location.
Related Public Safety Roles in Canberra
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Security Guard Hourly Rate in Canberra
Based on a standard 38-hour work week (Australian full-time hours):
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Security Guard earn in Canberra?
The average Security Guard salary in Canberra is $59,400 per year, or approximately $30 per hour. Salaries range from $48,600 to $75,600 depending on experience.
What is the take-home pay for a Security Guard in Canberra?
A Security Guard earning $59,400 in Canberra takes home approximately $49,604 per year after tax, or $4,134 per month. With a HECS debt, take-home drops to $48,416 per year.
How much do Security Guards make per hour in Canberra?
Security Guards in Canberra earn approximately $30 per hour on average, based on a 38-hour work week. Entry-level rates start around $25/hour, while senior professionals can earn up to $38/hour.
Is Canberra a good place to work as a Security Guard?
Canberra offers Security Guard salaries among the highest in Australia at $59,400. The city has a cost of living index of 92 (Sydney = 100), meaning living costs are lower than Sydney.
About Security Guard Salaries in Canberra
The average Security Guard in Canberra, Australian Capital Territory earns $59,400 per year, or approximately $30 per hour. Salaries typically range from $48,600 for entry-level positions to $75,600 for senior roles with extensive experience.
After income tax, Medicare levy, and other deductions, a Security Guard earning the average salary in Canberra can expect to take home approximately $49,604 per year, or $4,134 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 Security Guard Salaries
- Experience Level: Entry-level positions start around $48,600, while senior roles can reach $75,600.
- Industry: Different industries offer varying compensation for Security Guard 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, Security Guards earn $$25-$38 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.