Salary Guide

Financial Manager salary guide Australia 2026

The typical Financial Manager salary in Australia is $138,000, with pay ranging from $118,000 at entry level to $162,000 for senior professionals.

What does a Financial Manager earn?

The median salary of Financial Managers in Australia is $138,000. Most professionals in this field earn within the typical range of $118,000–$162,000. Securing advanced credentials like a CA or CPA designation can elevate earnings towards $162,000 as your strategic responsibilities grow.

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$138,000

Median for Financial Manager, nationally across Australia.

Median $138,000
$99,000
10th
$118,000
25th
$138,000
50th (median)
$162,000
75th
$193,000
90th

Figures above update by state/city. For a full breakdown by seniority, see the table below.

Junior
$118,000/yr
Mid Level
$137,000/yr
Senior Level
$162,000/yr

Financial Manager salary by city

Location plays a notable role in your earning potential, and where you're based makes a measurable difference. Remuneration varies across major hubs like Sydney and Melbourne compared to regional centres across Australian states.

Sydney Highest
$167,000
Perth
$167,000
Melbourne
$161,000
Brisbane
$161,000
Adelaide
$149,000

Factors that affect Financial Manager pay

Several key elements influence what you can earn in this role. Your qualifications, leadership scope and technical background all shape your market value.

Professional qualifications and credentials

Holding a Chartered Accountant (CA) or Certified Practising Accountant (CPA) designation signals high-level technical capability. Employers often pay a premium for certified leaders who can manage complex reporting requirements.

People leadership and team development

Managing larger finance teams and mentoring junior Accountants commands higher compensation. Strong leadership ensures team output aligns directly with broader organisational goals.

Australian Accounting Standards expertise

Deep familiarity with Australian Accounting Standards (AASB) is essential for regulatory precision. Organisations value professionals who can interpret complex standards without relying heavily on external advisory firms.

Financial modelling and commercial strategy

Moving beyond basic reporting into predictive financial modelling boosts your value. Executive teams rely on these strategic insights to guide capital allocation and commercial investments.

Sector specialisation

Experience within specific operating environments, such as the not-for-profit sector or complex commercial enterprises, impacts remuneration. Specialised funding knowledge and regulatory familiarity make you a valuable asset.

How Financial Managers compare to related roles

A Financial Manager typically earns a step above a Financial Analyst or Auditor, reflecting the role's broader governance and strategic scope. Compared to a Payroll Manager, Financial Managers command higher base remuneration, while stepping up to a Financial Controller position unlocks the next senior salary band.

Role Range Relative Median
Financial Controller $140,000–$190,000
$165,000
Financial Manager You are here $118,000–$162,000
$138,000
Payroll Manager $102,000–$141,000
$120,000
Financial Analyst $97,000–$149,000
$120,000
Auditor $68,000–$97,000
$79,000

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Employment Hero Job Data

Salary figures are derived from Employment Hero proprietary data. All figures represent base salary only and exclude bonuses, superannuation and other benefits. Last updated October 2026.

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Salary details

Quick salary facts
Typical range$118,000–$162,000
Junior$118,000
Mid level$137,000
Senior level$162,000
Top citySydney ($167,000)
Financial Controller Payroll Manager Financial Analyst Auditor