Firefighter Salary in Canberra
Public Safety
Firefighters respond to fires and emergencies, protecting lives and property.
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
Firefighter Take-Home Pay Breakdown in Canberra
Based on the average Firefighter salary of $88,560 in Canberra, here's what you can expect to take home after tax, Medicare levy, and superannuation.
| Component | Without HECS | With HECS |
|---|---|---|
| Gross Salary | $88,560 | $88,560 |
| Income Tax | -$17,356 | -$17,356 |
| Medicare Levy (2%) | -$1,771 | -$1,771 |
| HELP/HECS Repayment | $0 | -$3,100 |
| Superannuation (11%) | +$9,742 | +$9,742 |
| Annual Take-Home | $69,433 | $66,334 |
| Monthly Take-Home | $5,786 | $5,528 |
| Fortnightly Take-Home | $2,671 | $2,551 |
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How to Become a Firefighter
Everything you need to know about breaking into a career as a Firefighter in Australian Capital Territory.
Qualifications Required
- Year 12 or equivalent education
- Current driver's license
- High level of physical fitness
- Pass rigorous recruitment process
- Trade qualification or tertiary education
- First aid certification
- Volunteer firefighting experience
Career Progression
Recruit Firefighter
Firefighter
Senior Firefighter
Station Officer / Commander
Skills in Demand
Tips for Breaking In
- 1Maintain excellent physical fitness before applying
- 2Volunteer firefighting provides valuable experience
- 3Recruitment is highly competitive - prepare well
- 4Consider aviation or industrial firefighting as alternatives
- 5Develop leadership skills for promotion opportunities
Career information is general guidance based on industry standards. Requirements may vary by employer and location.
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Firefighter Hourly Rate in Canberra
Based on a standard 38-hour work week (Australian full-time hours):
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Firefighter earn in Canberra?
The average Firefighter salary in Canberra is $88,560 per year, or approximately $45 per hour. Salaries range from $66,960 to $118,800 depending on experience.
What is the take-home pay for a Firefighter in Canberra?
A Firefighter earning $88,560 in Canberra takes home approximately $69,433 per year after tax, or $5,786 per month. With a HECS debt, take-home drops to $66,334 per year.
How much do Firefighters make per hour in Canberra?
Firefighters in Canberra earn approximately $45 per hour on average, based on a 38-hour work week. Entry-level rates start around $34/hour, while senior professionals can earn up to $60/hour.
Is Canberra a good place to work as a Firefighter?
Canberra offers Firefighter salaries among the highest in Australia at $88,560. The city has a cost of living index of 92 (Sydney = 100), meaning living costs are lower than Sydney.
About Firefighter Salaries in Canberra
The average Firefighter in Canberra, Australian Capital Territory earns $88,560 per year, or approximately $45 per hour. Salaries typically range from $66,960 for entry-level positions to $118,800 for senior roles with extensive experience.
After income tax, Medicare levy, and other deductions, a Firefighter earning the average salary in Canberra can expect to take home approximately $69,433 per year, or $5,786 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 Firefighter Salaries
- Experience Level: Entry-level positions start around $66,960, while senior roles can reach $118,800.
- Industry: Different industries offer varying compensation for Firefighter 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, Firefighters earn $$34-$60 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.