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Motor Mechanic Salary in Adelaide

Trades

Motor mechanics diagnose, repair, and service motor vehicles and engines.

Average Salary
$64,800
per year
Take-Home Pay
$53,276
after tax (no HECS)
Salary Range
$45-90k
$65K
$45K$90K

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

+8% growth

Moderate projected employment growth over 5 years

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

Motor Mechanic Take-Home Pay Breakdown in Adelaide

Based on the average Motor Mechanic salary of $64,800 in Adelaide, here's what you can expect to take home after tax, Medicare levy, and superannuation.

ComponentWithout HECSWith HECS
Gross Salary$64,800$64,800
Income Tax-$10,228-$10,228
Medicare Levy (2%)-$1,296-$1,296
HELP/HECS Repayment$0-$1,296
Superannuation (11%)+$7,128+$7,128
Annual Take-Home$53,276$51,980
Monthly Take-Home$4,440$4,332
Fortnightly Take-Home$2,049$1,999

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
$65,000
Take-home$53,276
Tax-$10,228
Super+$7,128

How to Become a Motor Mechanic

Everything you need to know about breaking into a career as a Motor Mechanic in South Australia.

Qualifications Required

Essential Requirements
  • Certificate III in Light Vehicle Mechanical Technology
  • Valid driver's license
  • Completion of automotive apprenticeship
Preferred Qualifications
  • Certificate IV in Automotive Mechanical Diagnosis
  • Specialization in specific vehicle brands
  • Air conditioning certification (ARC license)
Relevant Certifications
ARC Refrigerant Handling LicenseLPG/CNG vehicle certificationElectric/hybrid vehicle certification

Career Progression

Salary Growth Trajectory
$32KEntry$65KMid$78KSenior$91KLead
Entry Level

Apprentice Mechanic

$32,400
estimated in Adelaide
0-4 years
Mid Level

Qualified Mechanic

$64,800
estimated in Adelaide
4-8 years
Senior Level

Senior / Master Technician

$77,760
estimated in Adelaide
8-15 years
Leadership

Workshop Manager / Owner

$90,720
estimated in Adelaide
10+ years

Skills in Demand

Electric and hybrid vehicle servicingAdvanced diagnosticsAir conditioning repairDiesel systemsFleet maintenance

Tips for Breaking In

  1. 1Get trained in electric vehicles - this is the future
  2. 2Specialize in premium brands for higher hourly rates
  3. 3Consider mobile mechanic business for flexibility
  4. 4Dealership experience provides structured career path
  5. 5Independent workshops offer higher earnings potential

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

Motor Mechanic Hourly Rate in Adelaide

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

Entry Level
$23/hr
Average
$33/hr
Senior
$46/hr

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a Motor Mechanic earn in Adelaide?

The average Motor Mechanic salary in Adelaide is $64,800 per year, or approximately $33 per hour. Salaries range from $45,000 to $90,000 depending on experience.

What is the take-home pay for a Motor Mechanic in Adelaide?

A Motor Mechanic earning $64,800 in Adelaide takes home approximately $53,276 per year after tax, or $4,440 per month. With a HECS debt, take-home drops to $51,980 per year.

How much do Motor Mechanics make per hour in Adelaide?

Motor Mechanics in Adelaide earn approximately $33 per hour on average, based on a 38-hour work week. Entry-level rates start around $23/hour, while senior professionals can earn up to $46/hour.

Is Adelaide a good place to work as a Motor Mechanic?

Adelaide offers Motor Mechanic salaries around average in Australia at $64,800. The city has a cost of living index of 82 (Sydney = 100), meaning living costs are lower than Sydney.

About Motor Mechanic Salaries in Adelaide

The average Motor Mechanic in Adelaide, South Australia earns $64,800 per year, or approximately $33 per hour. Salaries typically range from $45,000 for entry-level positions to $90,000 for senior roles with extensive experience.

After income tax, Medicare levy, and other deductions, a Motor Mechanic earning the average salary in Adelaide can expect to take home approximately $53,276 per year, or $4,440 per month.

Adelaide is home to approximately 1.4 million people and has a cost of living index of 82 (where Sydney = 100). This means living costs in Adelaide are lower Sydney.

Key Factors Affecting Motor Mechanic Salaries

  • Experience Level: Entry-level positions start around $45,000, while senior roles can reach $90,000.
  • Industry: Different industries offer varying compensation for Motor Mechanic roles.
  • Company Size: Larger companies typically offer higher salaries and more benefits.
  • Location: Adelaide's cost of living influences salary expectations.
  • Hourly Rate: Based on a 38-hour week, Motor Mechanics earn $$23-$46 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.