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Journalist Salary in Geelong

Media

Journalists research, write, and report news stories for various media outlets.

Average Salary
$62,640
per year
Take-Home Pay
$51,808
after tax (no HECS)
Salary Range
$44-96k
$63K
$44K$96K

Job Market Outlook

High AI Risk

Knowledge work with significant AI applicability

Competitive

More candidates than available positions

-5% decline

Projected employment decline over 5 years

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

Journalist Take-Home Pay Breakdown in Geelong

Based on the average Journalist salary of $62,640 in Geelong, here's what you can expect to take home after tax, Medicare levy, and superannuation.

ComponentWithout HECSWith HECS
Gross Salary$62,640$62,640
Income Tax-$9,580-$9,580
Medicare Levy (2%)-$1,253-$1,253
HELP/HECS Repayment$0-$1,253
Superannuation (11%)+$6,890+$6,890
Annual Take-Home$51,808$50,555
Monthly Take-Home$4,317$4,213
Fortnightly Take-Home$1,993$1,944

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
$63,000
Take-home$51,808
Tax-$9,580
Super+$6,890

How to Become a Journalist

Everything you need to know about breaking into a career as a Journalist in Victoria.

Qualifications Required

Essential Requirements
  • Bachelor's degree in Journalism, Communications, or related field
  • Strong writing and research skills
  • Ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines
Preferred Qualifications
  • Cadetship or internship experience
  • Multimedia skills (video, audio, social)
  • Specialist knowledge in a beat
Relevant Certifications
MEAA membershipSubeditor or media law trainingDigital media certifications

Career Progression

Salary Growth Trajectory
$44KEntry$63KMid$75KSenior$94KLead
Entry Level

Cadet / Junior Reporter

$43,848
estimated in Geelong
0-3 years
Mid Level

Journalist / Reporter

$62,640
estimated in Geelong
3-7 years
Senior Level

Senior Journalist / Specialist

$75,168
estimated in Geelong
7-12 years
Leadership

Editor / News Director

$93,960
estimated in Geelong
12+ years

Skills in Demand

Digital storytellingVideo journalismData journalismPodcast productionSocial media engagement

Tips for Breaking In

  1. 1Build a portfolio through student media, blogs, or freelancing
  2. 2Develop multimedia skills - video is essential
  3. 3Consider corporate communications for better pay
  4. 4Specialize in a high-demand beat
  5. 5Network actively in the industry

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

Related Media Roles in Geelong

Journalist Hourly Rate in Geelong

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

Entry Level
$22/hr
Average
$32/hr
Senior
$48/hr

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a Journalist earn in Geelong?

The average Journalist salary in Geelong is $62,640 per year, or approximately $32 per hour. Salaries range from $43,500 to $95,700 depending on experience.

What is the take-home pay for a Journalist in Geelong?

A Journalist earning $62,640 in Geelong takes home approximately $51,808 per year after tax, or $4,317 per month. With a HECS debt, take-home drops to $50,555 per year.

How much do Journalists make per hour in Geelong?

Journalists in Geelong earn approximately $32 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 $48/hour.

Is Geelong a good place to work as a Journalist?

Geelong offers Journalist salaries below average in Australia at $62,640. The city has a cost of living index of 80 (Sydney = 100), meaning living costs are lower than Sydney.

About Journalist Salaries in Geelong

The average Journalist in Geelong, Victoria earns $62,640 per year, or approximately $32 per hour. Salaries typically range from $43,500 for entry-level positions to $95,700 for senior roles with extensive experience.

After income tax, Medicare levy, and other deductions, a Journalist earning the average salary in Geelong can expect to take home approximately $51,808 per year, or $4,317 per month.

Geelong is home to approximately 270,000 people and has a cost of living index of 80 (where Sydney = 100). This means living costs in Geelong are lower Sydney.

Key Factors Affecting Journalist Salaries

  • Experience Level: Entry-level positions start around $43,500, while senior roles can reach $95,700.
  • Industry: Different industries offer varying compensation for Journalist roles.
  • Company Size: Larger companies typically offer higher salaries and more benefits.
  • Location: Geelong's cost of living influences salary expectations.
  • Hourly Rate: Based on a 38-hour week, Journalists earn $$22-$48 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.