APS 3 base salaries at each Australian Public Service agency from its enterprise agreement, with take-home pay after tax in 2026–27.
An APS 3 earns $70,477 to $81,381 a year depending on the agency and pay point: about $2,208 to $2,493 a fortnight after tax.
APS 3 is the third of the six APS classifications below the Executive Levels.
APS 3 salary by agency
Rates from 12 March 2026. Take-home is after income tax and the Medicare levy for a full year in 2026–27; super and allowances aren't included. Tap a salary to open it in the pay calculator.
Common questions
What is the APS 3 salary in 2026?
Between $70,477 and $81,381 a year across the agencies here, from 12 March 2026: ATO $75,431 – $81,381; Treasury $74,307 – $78,645; Services Australia $71,170 – $79,320; Home Affairs $70,477 – $79,403; Defence $72,275 – $79,635.
How much is APS 3 after tax?
From about $2,208 a fortnight at $70,477 to $2,493 at $81,381, after income tax and the Medicare levy in 2026–27.
Which agency pays the most for APS 3?
Of the agencies here, ATO has the highest APS 3 pay point ($81,381) and Home Affairs the lowest starting salary ($70,477). Each agency sets its own pay points in its enterprise agreement.
Is super included?
No. APS agencies pay 15.4% employer super on top of these salaries, more than the super guarantee.
How do I move up within APS 3?
Through yearly pay progression, which differs between agencies: a pay point a year at some, a percentage at others. Compare the agreements.
Other levels: APS 1 · APS 2 · APS 4 · APS 5 · APS 6 · EL 1 · EL 2. All levels by agency: APS pay rates.
Sources: ATO · Treasury · Services Australia · Home Affairs · Defence. Checked 2026-10-15. Tax: ATO tax rates. General information only.