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Youth Worker Salary in Wollongong

Social Services

Youth workers support young people with personal, social, and educational development.

Average Salary
$54,560
per year
Take-Home Pay
$46,313
after tax (no HECS)
Salary Range
$44-69k
$55K
$44K$69K

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

+15% growth

Strong projected employment growth over 5 years

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

Youth Worker Take-Home Pay Breakdown in Wollongong

Based on the average Youth Worker salary of $54,560 in Wollongong, here's what you can expect to take home after tax, Medicare levy, and superannuation.

ComponentWithout HECSWith HECS
Gross Salary$54,560$54,560
Income Tax-$7,156-$7,156
Medicare Levy (2%)-$1,091-$1,091
HELP/HECS Repayment$0-$546
Superannuation (11%)+$6,002+$6,002
Annual Take-Home$46,313$45,768
Monthly Take-Home$3,859$3,814
Fortnightly Take-Home$1,781$1,760

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
$55,000
Take-home$46,313
Tax-$7,156
Super+$6,002

How to Become a Youth Worker

Everything you need to know about breaking into a career as a Youth Worker in New South Wales.

Qualifications Required

Essential Requirements
  • Certificate IV in Youth Work or Community Services
  • Working with Children Check
  • National Police Check
  • Current First Aid certificate
Preferred Qualifications
  • Bachelor of Youth Work or Social Science
  • Experience with at-risk youth
  • Driver's license for outreach work
Relevant Certifications
Mental health first aidTrauma-informed care trainingDrug and alcohol counseling

Career Progression

Salary Growth Trajectory
$46KEntry$55KMid$63KSenior$71KLead
Entry Level

Youth Support Worker

$46,376
estimated in Wollongong
0-2 years
Mid Level

Youth Worker

$54,560
estimated in Wollongong
2-5 years
Senior Level

Senior Youth Worker

$62,744
estimated in Wollongong
5-8 years
Leadership

Youth Program Coordinator / Manager

$70,928
estimated in Wollongong
8+ years

Skills in Demand

Mental health supportCase managementProgram developmentFamily engagementCrisis intervention

Tips for Breaking In

  1. 1Get degree for career advancement opportunities
  2. 2Government and large NGOs offer better pay
  3. 3Specialize in areas like homelessness or AOD
  4. 4Build supervision and management skills
  5. 5Self-care and professional boundaries are crucial

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

Related Social Services Roles in Wollongong

Youth Worker Hourly Rate in Wollongong

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

Entry Level
$22/hr
Average
$28/hr
Senior
$35/hr

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a Youth Worker earn in Wollongong?

The average Youth Worker salary in Wollongong is $54,560 per year, or approximately $28 per hour. Salaries range from $44,000 to $68,640 depending on experience.

What is the take-home pay for a Youth Worker in Wollongong?

A Youth Worker earning $54,560 in Wollongong takes home approximately $46,313 per year after tax, or $3,859 per month. With a HECS debt, take-home drops to $45,768 per year.

How much do Youth Workers make per hour in Wollongong?

Youth Workers in Wollongong earn approximately $28 per hour on average, based on a 38-hour work week. Entry-level rates start around $22/hour, while senior professionals can earn up to $35/hour.

Is Wollongong a good place to work as a Youth Worker?

Wollongong offers Youth Worker salaries below average in Australia at $54,560. The city has a cost of living index of 82 (Sydney = 100), meaning living costs are lower than Sydney.

About Youth Worker Salaries in Wollongong

The average Youth Worker in Wollongong, New South Wales earns $54,560 per year, or approximately $28 per hour. Salaries typically range from $44,000 for entry-level positions to $68,640 for senior roles with extensive experience.

After income tax, Medicare levy, and other deductions, a Youth Worker earning the average salary in Wollongong can expect to take home approximately $46,313 per year, or $3,859 per month.

Wollongong is home to approximately 310,000 people and has a cost of living index of 82 (where Sydney = 100). This means living costs in Wollongong are lower Sydney.

Key Factors Affecting Youth Worker Salaries

  • Experience Level: Entry-level positions start around $44,000, while senior roles can reach $68,640.
  • Industry: Different industries offer varying compensation for Youth Worker roles.
  • Company Size: Larger companies typically offer higher salaries and more benefits.
  • Location: Wollongong's cost of living influences salary expectations.
  • Hourly Rate: Based on a 38-hour week, Youth Workers earn $$22-$35 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.