Software Engineer Salary in Sydney (2026)
Quick Answer
How much does software engineer in Sydney make?
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In 2026, Software Engineers in Sydney earn between AUD 100,000 and AUD 150,000 annually, with a median salary of AUD 118,042. Compensation varies based on experience, skills, and company.
Key Facts
- Median salary for Software Engineers in Sydney is AUD 118,042.
- Entry-level positions start at AUD 100,000 annually.
- Senior roles can earn up to AUD 150,000 or more.
- Top companies hiring include Atlassian and Canva.
- Skills in Python and AWS are highly valued.
Salary by Experience Level
- Junior (0–2 years): AUD 100,000 – AUD 110,000
- Mid-Level (3–5 years): AUD 110,000 – AUD 130,000
- Senior (6–9 years): AUD 130,000 – AUD 150,000
- Lead/Principal (10+ years): AUD 150,000 – AUD 200,000
How Sydney Compares
- Sydney: AUD 118,042
- Melbourne: AUD 102,500
- Brisbane: AUD 101,249
Skills That Command Premium
- Python: High demand in AI and data science
- JavaScript & TypeScript: Essential for front-end and full-stack development
- Node.js: Preferred for scalable web applications
- AWS: Crucial for cloud-based solutions
Work Culture & Benefits
Sydney's tech industry offers flexible work arrangements, professional development opportunities, and competitive benefits, including stock options and performance bonuses.
Top Hiring Companies
Career Advice
To maximize earning potential, focus on developing in-demand skills like Python and AWS. Networking within Sydney's tech community can also open doors to top employers.
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Software Engineer Insights — Sydney
Software Engineer salaries in Sydney range from A$100,000 to A$150,000, a 42% spread indicating moderate variation depending on seniority and employer. The median of A$118,042 sits below the midpoint, suggesting more positions cluster toward the entry-to-mid-level end of the range.
Sydney's cost of living index of 57/100 represents moderate living costs. At a median salary of A$118,042, software engineer professionals here enjoy solid purchasing power relative to higher-cost tech hubs.
The hiring landscape for software engineer in Sydney is anchored by employers like Atlassian, Canva, and WiseTech Global, along with 2 other notable employers. These employers offer competitive packages that generally align with market rates, with differentiation coming through benefits, growth opportunities, and work flexibility.
Demand for software engineer in Sydney centers around expertise in Python, JavaScript, TypeScript, plus 2 other core competencies. Candidates with strong proficiency across these areas tend to command offers closer to the A$150,000 ceiling, and have natural transition paths into roles like Full Stack Developer or Backend Engineer.
Related Roles in Sydney
Explore salary information for similar positions and compare compensation across different roles.
| Role | Location | Salary Range | Median |
|---|---|---|---|
| Senior Software Engineer | Cologne | €75,000 - €115,000 | €85,000 |
| Software Engineer | Denver | $90,000 - $210,000 | $126,421 |
| Software Engineer | Hannover | €52,000 - €95,000 | €72,000 |
| Software Engineer | Munich | €65,000 - €130,000 | €95,000 |
| Senior Software Engineer | Nuremberg | €75,000 - €105,000 | €85,000 |
| Software Engineer |
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average salary for a Software Engineer in Sydney?
The average salary is approximately AUD 118,042 per year.
Which companies are top employers for Software Engineers in Sydney?
Top employers include Atlassian, Canva, WiseTech Global, REA Group, and Commonwealth Bank.
What skills are in high demand for Software Engineers in Sydney?
Skills in Python, JavaScript, TypeScript, Node.js, and AWS are highly sought after.
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Data Source & Methodology
Salary data for software engineer in Sydney is compiled from multiple verified sources including:
- Public salary reports from major tech employers (FAANG, Fortune 500, and high-growth startups)
- Government labor statistics and occupational wage surveys
- Aggregated self-reported compensation data from verified professionals
- Job posting analysis from major tech job boards and company career pages
All figures represent base salary in AUD and are normalized to annual equivalents. Ranges reflect the 25th to 75th percentile of reported compensation, while median values represent the 50th percentile. Data is updated quarterly to reflect current market conditions.
Last updated: April 2026 | Sample size: Varies by role and location (minimum 30 data points required for publication)