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HVAC Technician Salary in Canberra

Trades

HVAC technicians install and maintain heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems.

Average Salary
$84,240
per year
Take-Home Pay
$66,496
after tax (no HECS)
Salary Range
$59-119k
$84K
$59K$119K

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

HVAC Technician Take-Home Pay Breakdown in Canberra

Based on the average HVAC Technician salary of $84,240 in Canberra, here's what you can expect to take home after tax, Medicare levy, and superannuation.

ComponentWithout HECSWith HECS
Gross Salary$84,240$84,240
Income Tax-$16,060-$16,060
Medicare Levy (2%)-$1,685-$1,685
HELP/HECS Repayment$0-$2,527
Superannuation (11%)+$9,266+$9,266
Annual Take-Home$66,496$63,968
Monthly Take-Home$5,541$5,331
Fortnightly Take-Home$2,558$2,460

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
$84,000
Take-home$66,496
Tax-$16,060
Super+$9,266

How to Become a HVAC Technician

Everything you need to know about breaking into a career as a HVAC Technician in Australian Capital Territory.

Qualifications Required

Essential Requirements
  • Certificate III in Air-conditioning and Refrigeration
  • ARC Refrigerant Handling License
  • Restricted Electrical License
Preferred Qualifications
  • Certificate IV in Air-conditioning and Refrigeration
  • Split system endorsement
  • Gas fitting license
Relevant Certifications
Working at heights certificationFull electrical licenseCommercial refrigeration endorsement

Career Progression

Salary Growth Trajectory
$42KEntry$84KMid$101KSenior$126KLead
Entry Level

HVAC Apprentice

$42,120
estimated in Canberra
0-4 years
Mid Level

HVAC Technician

$84,240
estimated in Canberra
4-8 years
Senior Level

Senior HVAC Technician

$101,088
estimated in Canberra
8-12 years
Leadership

HVAC Contractor / Business Owner

$126,360
estimated in Canberra
10+ years

Skills in Demand

Commercial refrigerationVRF/VRV systemsBuilding automation systemsHeat pump technologyEnergy efficiency auditing

Tips for Breaking In

  1. 1Get electrical license for more opportunities
  2. 2Commercial and industrial work pays better than residential
  3. 3Mining and data centers offer premium rates
  4. 4Stay current with refrigerant regulations and new technologies
  5. 5Own business can be very profitable in this trade

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

HVAC Technician Hourly Rate in Canberra

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

Entry Level
$30/hr
Average
$43/hr
Senior
$60/hr

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a HVAC Technician earn in Canberra?

The average HVAC Technician salary in Canberra is $84,240 per year, or approximately $43 per hour. Salaries range from $59,400 to $118,800 depending on experience.

What is the take-home pay for a HVAC Technician in Canberra?

A HVAC Technician earning $84,240 in Canberra takes home approximately $66,496 per year after tax, or $5,541 per month. With a HECS debt, take-home drops to $63,968 per year.

How much do HVAC Technicians make per hour in Canberra?

HVAC Technicians in Canberra earn approximately $43 per hour on average, based on a 38-hour work week. Entry-level rates start around $30/hour, while senior professionals can earn up to $60/hour.

Is Canberra a good place to work as a HVAC Technician?

Canberra offers HVAC Technician salaries among the highest in Australia at $84,240. The city has a cost of living index of 92 (Sydney = 100), meaning living costs are lower than Sydney.

About HVAC Technician Salaries in Canberra

The average HVAC Technician in Canberra, Australian Capital Territory earns $84,240 per year, or approximately $43 per hour. Salaries typically range from $59,400 for entry-level positions to $118,800 for senior roles with extensive experience.

After income tax, Medicare levy, and other deductions, a HVAC Technician earning the average salary in Canberra can expect to take home approximately $66,496 per year, or $5,541 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 HVAC Technician Salaries

  • Experience Level: Entry-level positions start around $59,400, while senior roles can reach $118,800.
  • Industry: Different industries offer varying compensation for HVAC Technician 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, HVAC Technicians earn $$30-$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.