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Security Guard Salary in Sydney

Public Safety

Security guards protect premises, assets, and people from theft and harm.

Average Salary
$60,500
per year
Take-Home Pay
$50,352
after tax (no HECS)
Salary Range
$50-77k
$61K
$50K$77K

Job Market Outlook

Low AI Risk

Physical or high-touch work with limited AI automation potential

Balanced

Job supply roughly matches candidate availability

+10% growth

Moderate projected employment growth over 5 years

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

Security Guard Take-Home Pay Breakdown in Sydney

Based on the average Security Guard salary of $60,500 in Sydney, here's what you can expect to take home after tax, Medicare levy, and superannuation.

ComponentWithout HECSWith HECS
Gross Salary$60,500$60,500
Income Tax-$8,938-$8,938
Medicare Levy (2%)-$1,210-$1,210
HELP/HECS Repayment$0-$1,210
Superannuation (11%)+$6,655+$6,655
Annual Take-Home$50,352$49,142
Monthly Take-Home$4,196$4,095
Fortnightly Take-Home$1,937$1,890

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
$61,000
Take-home$50,352
Tax-$8,938
Super+$6,655

How to Become a Security Guard

Everything you need to know about breaking into a career as a Security Guard in New South Wales.

Qualifications Required

Essential Requirements
  • Security license for your state/territory
  • First aid certificate
  • National Police Check
Preferred Qualifications
  • Certificate II or III in Security Operations
  • Driver's license
  • Previous security or military experience
Relevant Certifications
Crowd control licenseArmed guard licenseClose personal protection certification

Career Progression

Salary Growth Trajectory
$54KEntry$61KMid$70KSenior$82KLead
Entry Level

Security Guard

$54,450
estimated in Sydney
0-2 years
Mid Level

Senior Security Officer

$60,500
estimated in Sydney
2-5 years
Senior Level

Site Supervisor

$69,575
estimated in Sydney
5-10 years
Leadership

Security Manager / Consultant

$81,675
estimated in Sydney
10+ years

Skills in Demand

Access control systemsCCTV and surveillanceRisk assessmentConflict resolutionEmergency response

Tips for Breaking In

  1. 1Corporate and mining security pays better
  2. 2Get additional certifications for higher pay roles
  3. 3Consider close personal protection for premium earnings
  4. 4Night shift and weekend work pays penalty rates
  5. 5Build skills for security management progression

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

Related Public Safety Roles in Sydney

Security Guard Hourly Rate in Sydney

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

Entry Level
$25/hr
Average
$31/hr
Senior
$39/hr

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a Security Guard earn in Sydney?

The average Security Guard salary in Sydney is $60,500 per year, or approximately $31 per hour. Salaries range from $49,500 to $77,000 depending on experience.

What is the take-home pay for a Security Guard in Sydney?

A Security Guard earning $60,500 in Sydney takes home approximately $50,352 per year after tax, or $4,196 per month. With a HECS debt, take-home drops to $49,142 per year.

How much do Security Guards make per hour in Sydney?

Security Guards in Sydney earn approximately $31 per hour on average, based on a 38-hour work week. Entry-level rates start around $25/hour, while senior professionals can earn up to $39/hour.

Is Sydney a good place to work as a Security Guard?

Sydney offers Security Guard salaries among the highest in Australia at $60,500. The city has a cost of living index of 100 (Sydney = 100), meaning living costs are similar to Sydney.

About Security Guard Salaries in Sydney

The average Security Guard in Sydney, New South Wales earns $60,500 per year, or approximately $31 per hour. Salaries typically range from $49,500 for entry-level positions to $77,000 for senior roles with extensive experience.

After income tax, Medicare levy, and other deductions, a Security Guard earning the average salary in Sydney can expect to take home approximately $50,352 per year, or $4,196 per month.

Sydney is home to approximately 5.3 million people and has a cost of living index of 100 (where Sydney = 100). This means living costs in Sydney are similar to Sydney.

Key Factors Affecting Security Guard Salaries

  • Experience Level: Entry-level positions start around $49,500, while senior roles can reach $77,000.
  • Industry: Different industries offer varying compensation for Security Guard roles.
  • Company Size: Larger companies typically offer higher salaries and more benefits.
  • Location: Sydney's cost of living influences salary expectations.
  • Hourly Rate: Based on a 38-hour week, Security Guards earn $$25-$39 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.