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Painter and Decorator Salary in Canberra

Trades

Painters apply paint and finishes to buildings, structures, and other surfaces.

Average Salary
$70,200
per year
Take-Home Pay
$56,948
after tax (no HECS)
Salary Range
$52-97k
$70K
$52K$97K

Job Market Outlook

Low AI Risk

Physical or high-touch work with limited AI automation potential

Balanced

Job supply roughly matches candidate availability

+6% growth

Moderate projected employment growth over 5 years

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

Painter and Decorator Take-Home Pay Breakdown in Canberra

Based on the average Painter and Decorator salary of $70,200 in Canberra, here's what you can expect to take home after tax, Medicare levy, and superannuation.

ComponentWithout HECSWith HECS
Gross Salary$70,200$70,200
Income Tax-$11,848-$11,848
Medicare Levy (2%)-$1,404-$1,404
HELP/HECS Repayment$0-$2,106
Superannuation (11%)+$7,722+$7,722
Annual Take-Home$56,948$54,842
Monthly Take-Home$4,746$4,570
Fortnightly Take-Home$2,190$2,109

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
$70,000
Take-home$56,948
Tax-$11,848
Super+$7,722

How to Become a Painter and Decorator

Everything you need to know about breaking into a career as a Painter and Decorator in Australian Capital Territory.

Qualifications Required

Essential Requirements
  • Certificate III in Painting and Decorating
  • White Card (construction induction)
  • Driver's license
Preferred Qualifications
  • Certificate IV in Building and Construction
  • Experience with spray painting
  • Wallpapering skills
Relevant Certifications
Working at heights certificationLead paint removal certificationAsbestos awareness

Career Progression

Salary Growth Trajectory
$39KEntry$70KMid$81KSenior$98KLead
Entry Level

Painting Apprentice

$38,610
estimated in Canberra
0-3 years
Mid Level

Qualified Painter

$70,200
estimated in Canberra
3-7 years
Senior Level

Lead Painter / Specialist

$80,730
estimated in Canberra
7-12 years
Leadership

Painting Contractor

$98,280
estimated in Canberra
10+ years

Skills in Demand

Spray painting techniquesCommercial and industrial coatingDecorative finishesHeight work (rope access)Wallpapering

Tips for Breaking In

  1. 1Commercial work often pays better than residential
  2. 2Develop spray painting skills for efficiency
  3. 3Build a reputation for quality and reliability
  4. 4Own business offers best earning potential
  5. 5Specialize in high-end decorative work for premium rates

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

Painter and Decorator Hourly Rate in Canberra

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

Entry Level
$26/hr
Average
$36/hr
Senior
$49/hr

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a Painter and Decorator earn in Canberra?

The average Painter and Decorator salary in Canberra is $70,200 per year, or approximately $36 per hour. Salaries range from $51,840 to $97,200 depending on experience.

What is the take-home pay for a Painter and Decorator in Canberra?

A Painter and Decorator earning $70,200 in Canberra takes home approximately $56,948 per year after tax, or $4,746 per month. With a HECS debt, take-home drops to $54,842 per year.

How much do Painter and Decorators make per hour in Canberra?

Painter and Decorators in Canberra earn approximately $36 per hour on average, based on a 38-hour work week. Entry-level rates start around $26/hour, while senior professionals can earn up to $49/hour.

Is Canberra a good place to work as a Painter and Decorator?

Canberra offers Painter and Decorator salaries among the highest in Australia at $70,200. The city has a cost of living index of 92 (Sydney = 100), meaning living costs are lower than Sydney.

About Painter and Decorator Salaries in Canberra

The average Painter and Decorator in Canberra, Australian Capital Territory earns $70,200 per year, or approximately $36 per hour. Salaries typically range from $51,840 for entry-level positions to $97,200 for senior roles with extensive experience.

After income tax, Medicare levy, and other deductions, a Painter and Decorator earning the average salary in Canberra can expect to take home approximately $56,948 per year, or $4,746 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 Painter and Decorator Salaries

  • Experience Level: Entry-level positions start around $51,840, while senior roles can reach $97,200.
  • Industry: Different industries offer varying compensation for Painter and Decorator 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, Painter and Decorators earn $$26-$49 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.