Software Engineer Salary in Australia in 2025: Scope, In Demand Skills & Top Companies

Australia's tech industry is experiencing a significant surge creating a high demand for software engineers across various sectors. As of February 2025 the average annual salary for a software engineer in Australia is approximately AUD 120,000 (Glassdoor). The Australian government projects a 22.6% increase in software engineering roles between 2023 to 2028 equating to about 58,000 new positions. 

This growth is driven by accelerated digital transformation and technological advancements, particularly in fintech healthcare and E Commerce. In this article we will dive deeper into the scope of software engineers in Australia, in demand skills, top 10 highest paying software engineer salaries in Australian cities and more.

Scope of Software Engineers in Australia

Is a software engineer in demand in Australia? It’s a big Yes! The increasing demand for software engineers in Australia is closely linked to the ongoing expansion of the tech sector and Australia's aspirations to establish a strong presence in the global tech arena. 

As a result, we could also anticipate a corresponding increase in software engineer salary in Australia.

The benefits of being a software engineer in Australia are many including high employment opportunities in Australia, competitive pay, high standard of living, etc. A few of the notable additional advantages include:

• Australia's software engineering industry has steadily grown in the past decade and is expected to surpass $6 billion in market size by 2024.
• Australia boasts several respected institutions offering software engineering undergraduate and graduate programs.
• The total median compensation for software engineers in Australia is around A$147,591 (salaries include all levels of experience).
• According to Deloitte Access Economics' 2020 forecast, the number of tech workers in Australia is projected to surpass 1 million by 2027, up from 772,175 in 2019.
• Advancements in technology, tech sector expansion, and increasing demand for software solutions in finance, healthcare, and e-commerce are driving digital transformation.

Average Salary in Australia for Experienced Software Engineer

Curious to find out your earning potential based on the years of experience you have gained so far? The table below gives you the software engineer average salary in Australia that you could expect as an experienced software engineer in Australia.

Average Software Engineer Salary in Australia Based on Education 

The salary you can earn as a software engineer in Australia largely depends on your educational level and the career path you choose. Below is a breakdown of the software engineer salary in Australia based on education qualifications

Top 10 Highest Paying Cities for Software Engineers in Australia

So, how much does a software engineer make in Australia? The average salary of a software engineer in Australia annually is around A$107,033 - A$130,000 and the average software engineer salary in Australia per hour is about A$54.78 - A$61.54. 

Moving further, let us learn more about the highest, lowest, and average software engineer salary in Australia.

Average Salaries For Different Software Engineer Job Roles in Australia

Now that you are familiarized with the highest, lowest, and average software engineer salary in Australia, it is time to learn the Salary Ranges for a software engineer jobs in Australia - from Data Engineer roles to software developer salary in Australia. 

Top Companies Hiring Software Engineers in Australia

If you are exploring job opportunities, finding the right employer is crucial. Many top companies in Australia offer competitive salaries and excellent career growth prospects for software engineers Here is an overview of how much a software engineer makes in Australia at some of the leading firms

In Demand Skills For Software Engineers in Australia

You would be delighted to note that specifically in Australia, software engineering is booming. With a growing demand for professionals skilled in cutting-edge technologies like React, Node, and Kotlin. 

Other mandatory skills include - communication, teamwork, problem solving, attention to detail, database administration, software development, knowledge of multiple coding languages, etc.

If you're eyeing a career in this field, completing a bachelor's degree in Computer Science or Software Engineering can give you a solid foundation. However, it's not just about qualifications; real-world experience is key. With around 6 years of job experience, you can significantly boost your market value, especially in cities like Adelaide.

While demand may fluctuate month-to-month, the overall outlook remains robust, signaling ample opportunities for skilled software engineers across the country.

Now that you are aware of the benefits and the skills required to be attained, up next is to pave your tech career in Australia. 

Minimum Eligibility Requirements to Work as a Software Engineer in Australia

The software engineering job market in Australia is competitive, requiring a showcase of technical skills and interpersonal qualities during interviews. To bag a good software developer salary in Australia, there are certain requirements that you must meet:

• A bachelor's degree in software engineering or computer science is typically required, with some employers preferring postgraduate qualifications.
• Foreign nationals must demonstrate English proficiency through exams like IELTS or TOEFL.
• Non-citizens need a valid work permit.
• Experience in the field is often preferred, though entry-level positions are available.
• An impressive application package, including a strong resume, cover letter, and portfolio, is essential.

Software Engineer Skill Assessment Australia

To apply for permanent residency or skilled visas in Australia's General Skilled Migration program, software engineers (ANZSCO 261313) need to undergo a skills assessment by the Australian Computer Society (ACS) - the authority for ICT roles.

You would need the following documents to be submitted to apply for a software engineer skill assessment in Australia:

• Passport copy
• CV/resume
• Educational qualifications (transcript and certificate)
• Employment references on company letterhead or statutory declarations
• Payment evidence

ACS will assess if your education and/or work experience meet professional standards for software engineering. Upon passing, ACS issues a certificate verifying your skills, qualifications, and work experience.

Want to Find a Software Engineer Job in Australia? GetGIS Can Help

Hope now you are confidently able to answer how much does a software engineer make in Australia? The software engineer salary in Australia is highly competitive with earnings influenced by education, experience and the employer

If you are looking to build a career in Canada, securing permanent residency (PR) can open even more doors to job opportunities and long term benefits. If you need guidance to the Australia PR and immigration process, GetGIS can assist you with expert consultation and Seamless application process.

 Book Your Free Consultation to get started

Useful Links

• Best country for software engineer to immigrate from India
• Best Courses in Australia For PR: Path To Success
• Australia Point System for Subclass 188, 189, 190 and 491: Know Your Eligibility
• All You Need To Know About Skilled Migration Visa Australia
• What is the Best Way to Get PR in Australia?