Paleontologist salary in Australia
Paleontologists study fossils to understand the history of life on Earth. In Australia, they work in museums, universities, government agencies, and mining companies. But how much do they earn, and where does that pay sit against the national full‑time average?
No published median or average
The Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) does not publish a specific median or average salary for paleontologists. The occupation is classified under ANZSCO 234414, a 6‑digit code, and the ABS only releases earnings data for larger occupation groups. The Jobs and Skills Australia profile for Geologists (a related occupation) also shows median weekly earnings as 'N/A' because the sample size is too small.
Using the Professionals category
Paleontologists are Professionals. According to the ABS Employee Earnings and Hours survey for May 2025, the average hourly total cash earnings for all non‑managerial Professionals was $64.50. If a paleontologist works a standard 38‑hour week, that hourly rate translates to about $2,451 per week or $127,452 per year – well above the national full‑time adult ordinary‑time average of $2,083.70 per week ($108,352 per year) from ABS Average Weekly Earnings, May 2026.
However, this is an average for all Professionals, not a paleontologist‑specific figure. The actual pay for a paleontologist depends on their employer, experience, and location.
Industry matters
Many paleontologists work in the mining industry, where pay tends to be higher. The ABS reports that non‑managerial employees in Mining earned an average of $74.10 per hour in May 2025. That would be about $2,816 per week or $146,432 per year on a 38‑hour week. Paleontologists in mining exploration or resource assessment may command salaries closer to that level.
In contrast, paleontologists in government agencies or universities often earn less. The public sector full‑time adult ordinary‑time average was $2,263.10 per week ($117,648 per year) in May 2026, while the private sector average was $2,034.10 per week ($105,773 per year). Academic roles may also include research funding or teaching allowances.
Location and hours
State averages also play a role. The highest full‑time averages are in the Australian Capital Territory ($119,090) and Western Australia ($115,825), while Tasmania is lowest ($96,008). Paleontologists in WA, where mining is strong, may earn more than those in other states.
The Geologists profile shows that 83% work full‑time, and those full‑time workers average 53 hours per week – well above the national average of 44 hours. Longer hours mean higher weekly total earnings, even if the hourly rate is similar.
How the line works
Place a salary on the line to see how any figure compares to the national full‑time average. The line uses the ABS Average Weekly Earnings figure of $2,083.70 per week ($108,352 per year) as the benchmark. You can also explore Job medians for other occupations, though paleontologist data is not available.
Tax considerations
If a paleontologist earns $127,452 per year (using the Professionals average), they would fall into the 30% tax bracket for 2026–27 (income between $45,001 and $135,000). The Medicare levy of 2% applies. After tax and levy, take‑home pay would be roughly $95,000, depending on deductions.
Summary
Without a published paleontologist salary, the best guide is the Professionals average hourly rate of $64.50. That suggests most paleontologists earn above the national full‑time average, especially if they work in mining or in Western Australia. Those in government or academia may earn closer to the public sector average. For a precise figure, you would need to consult job advertisements or industry surveys.
Further reading
- States and territories – see how state averages compare.
- How the figures are set – understand the sources behind the line.