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Social Worker Salary in Darwin

Social Services

Social workers support individuals and families facing challenges like mental health, disability, or crisis.

Average Salary
$86,100
per year
Take-Home Pay
$67,760
after tax (no HECS)
Salary Range
$65-110k
$86K
$65K$110K

Job Market Outlook

Low AI Risk

Physical or high-touch work with limited AI automation potential

In Demand

More jobs than qualified candidates in Australia

+18% growth

Strong projected employment growth over 5 years

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

Social Worker Take-Home Pay Breakdown in Darwin

Based on the average Social Worker salary of $86,100 in Darwin, here's what you can expect to take home after tax, Medicare levy, and superannuation.

ComponentWithout HECSWith HECS
Gross Salary$86,100$86,100
Income Tax-$16,618-$16,618
Medicare Levy (2%)-$1,722-$1,722
HELP/HECS Repayment$0-$3,014
Superannuation (11%)+$9,471+$9,471
Annual Take-Home$67,760$64,747
Monthly Take-Home$5,647$5,396
Fortnightly Take-Home$2,606$2,490

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
$86,000
Take-home$67,760
Tax-$16,618
Super+$9,471

How to Become a Social Worker

Everything you need to know about breaking into a career as a Social Worker in Northern Territory.

Qualifications Required

Essential Requirements
  • Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) from accredited program
  • Eligibility for AASW membership
  • Working with Children Check and Police Check
Preferred Qualifications
  • Master of Social Work
  • Field education in diverse settings
  • Specialized training in areas like mental health or child protection
Relevant Certifications
AASW Accredited Social Worker statusMental Health accreditationFamily therapy certifications

Career Progression

Salary Growth Trajectory
$69KEntry$86KMid$103KSenior$121KLead
Entry Level

Graduate Social Worker

$68,880
estimated in Darwin
0-2 years
Mid Level

Social Worker

$86,100
estimated in Darwin
2-5 years
Senior Level

Senior Social Worker

$103,320
estimated in Darwin
5-10 years
Leadership

Team Leader / Program Manager

$120,540
estimated in Darwin
10+ years

Skills in Demand

Mental health supportChild protectionFamily therapyCase managementTrauma-informed practice

Tips for Breaking In

  1. 1Government roles typically offer better pay and conditions
  2. 2Hospital social work offers clinical focus
  3. 3Private practice possible with AMHSW accreditation
  4. 4Rural and remote areas have strong demand
  5. 5Supervision and professional development are essential

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

Related Social Services Roles in Darwin

Social Worker Hourly Rate in Darwin

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

Entry Level
$33/hr
Average
$44/hr
Senior
$56/hr

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a Social Worker earn in Darwin?

The average Social Worker salary in Darwin is $86,100 per year, or approximately $44 per hour. Salaries range from $65,100 to $110,250 depending on experience.

What is the take-home pay for a Social Worker in Darwin?

A Social Worker earning $86,100 in Darwin takes home approximately $67,760 per year after tax, or $5,647 per month. With a HECS debt, take-home drops to $64,747 per year.

How much do Social Workers make per hour in Darwin?

Social Workers in Darwin earn approximately $44 per hour on average, based on a 38-hour work week. Entry-level rates start around $33/hour, while senior professionals can earn up to $56/hour.

Is Darwin a good place to work as a Social Worker?

Darwin offers Social Worker salaries among the highest in Australia at $86,100. The city has a cost of living index of 95 (Sydney = 100), meaning living costs are lower than Sydney.

About Social Worker Salaries in Darwin

The average Social Worker in Darwin, Northern Territory earns $86,100 per year, or approximately $44 per hour. Salaries typically range from $65,100 for entry-level positions to $110,250 for senior roles with extensive experience.

After income tax, Medicare levy, and other deductions, a Social Worker earning the average salary in Darwin can expect to take home approximately $67,760 per year, or $5,647 per month.

Darwin is home to approximately 150,000 people and has a cost of living index of 95 (where Sydney = 100). This means living costs in Darwin are lower Sydney.

Key Factors Affecting Social Worker Salaries

  • Experience Level: Entry-level positions start around $65,100, while senior roles can reach $110,250.
  • Industry: Different industries offer varying compensation for Social Worker roles.
  • Company Size: Larger companies typically offer higher salaries and more benefits.
  • Location: Darwin's cost of living influences salary expectations.
  • Hourly Rate: Based on a 38-hour week, Social Workers earn $$33-$56 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.