Architect salary in Australia: the Architects Award minimum for every level from 1 July 2026, what each level covers, casual rates, what architects actually earn according to the ATO, and take-home pay in 2026–27.
An architect earns at least $34.40 an hour ($68,191 a year) at Level 1 - entry, up to $42.23 ($83,716) at Level 2(b) - 2nd pay point. The ATO median for architects was $92,353 in 2023-24.
Architects design buildings and manage projects from concept to construction. The Architects Award sets minimum annual salaries for graduates of architecture (Level 1 and 2(a)) and registered architects (Level 2(b)); students of architecture have their own rates. Senior architects are usually paid well above these minimums.
Architect award pay rates
| Level and what it covers | Hourly | Casual hourly | Per year | Take-home per fortnight |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Level 1 - entry Graduate of architecture, entry | $34.40 | $43.00 | $68,191 | $2,148 |
| Level 1 - 1st pay point Graduate of architecture | $36.22 | $45.28 | $71,798 | $2,242 |
| Level 1 - 2nd pay point Graduate of architecture | $38.04 | $47.55 | $75,401 | $2,337 |
| Level 2(a) Experienced graduate of architecture | $39.77 | $49.71 | $78,838 | $2,427 |
| Level 2(b) - entry Registered architect, entry | $39.77 | $49.71 | $78,838 | $2,427 |
| Level 2(b) - 1st pay point Registered architect | $41.00 | $51.25 | $81,276 | $2,490 |
| Level 2(b) - 2nd pay point Registered architect | $42.23 | $52.79 | $83,716 | $2,554 |
Annual minimum salaries from the award; hourly rate as published. Casual rates include the 25% loading. Take-home pay is after income tax and the Medicare levy for a full year in 2026–27.
What architects actually earn
| Occupation (ATO) | People | Median salary or wage | Average salary or wage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Architect | 17,934 | $92,353 | $101,267 |
| Architectural draftsperson | 16,600 | $75,486 | $78,550 |
| Landscape architect | 4,839 | $78,456 | $82,445 |
ATO Taxation Statistics 2023-24, Table 15A. Includes part-time workers and overtime.
To call yourself an architect you must be registered with the architects registration board in your state or territory, which usually needs a Master of Architecture, practical experience and the Architectural Practice Examination.
See also Professional Employees Award pay, surveyor salary.
Common questions
How much does an architect earn in Australia?
The award minimum runs from $34.40 an hour ($68,191 a year full time) at Level 1 - entry to $42.23 ($83,716) at Level 2(b) - 2nd pay point, from 1 July 2026. The ATO median salary or wage for architects was $92,353 in 2023-24, including part-timers.
What is the casual rate for an architect?
$43.00 to $52.79 an hour under the award, including the 25% casual loading.
Which award covers architects?
The Architects Award [MA000079]. To call yourself an architect you must be registered with the architects registration board in your state or territory, which usually needs a Master of Architecture, practical experience and the Architectural Practice Examination.
When do award rates go up?
Each year from the first full pay period on or after 1 July, after the Fair Work Commission's Annual Wage Review.
Sources: Fair Work Ombudsman pay guide and award text (Schedule A), Architects Award [MA000079]; ATO Taxation Statistics 2023-24. Checked 2026-10-23. General information only.