A registered nurse in Australia earns a median gross salary of A$115,000 per year in 2026 (about $75,000). Entry-level roles start around A$80,000, and senior registered nurses reach A$165,000 or more.
| Experience level | Gross salary (AUD) | ≈ USD |
|---|---|---|
| Entry level | A$80,000 | $53,000 |
| Median | A$115,000 | $75,000 |
| Senior | A$165,000 | $110,000 |
The Australian market for registered nurses
Australia pays well by global standards, with mining, healthcare and trades notably strong; a licensed tradesperson in Perth can out-earn many office workers. Distance from other markets means less remote-work salary arbitrage than Europe.
Tax reality
Progressive rates up to 45% plus a Medicare levy. Compulsory superannuation (12%) is paid by employers on top of quoted salaries.
How Australia compares
United States median
$94,000
Australia pays 20% less
United Kingdom median
$48,000
Australia pays 56% more
EU average median
$52,000
Australia pays 44% more
Registered Nurse pay in Australia: FAQ
How much does a registered nurse earn in Australia?
In 2026, a registered nurse in Australia earns a median gross salary of about A$115,000 per year (roughly $75,000). Entry-level pay starts around A$80,000 and experienced seniors reach A$165,000 or more.
What does an entry-level registered nurse make in Australia?
Around A$80,000 gross per year. Typical entry route: bachelor's degree, and reaching the median usually takes about 4 years of experience.
Is Australia a good country for registered nurses?
Australia pays well by global standards, with mining, healthcare and trades notably strong; a licensed tradesperson in Perth can out-earn many office workers. Distance from other markets means less remote-work salary arbitrage than Europe.
How much tax does a registered nurse pay in Australia?
Progressive rates up to 45% plus a Medicare levy. Compulsory superannuation (12%) is paid by employers on top of quoted salaries.
Gross annual estimates derived from the Paygrade research dataset (updated 7 July 2026) using country wage factors and 2026 exchange rates. Read the full methodology. Actual offers vary by company, city and negotiation.