Sonography salary and the national line
Sonographers operate ultrasound equipment to capture diagnostic images. In Australia, the occupation is classified under ANZSCO 251214. The Australian Bureau of Statistics does not publish a specific average weekly earnings figure for sonographers. Jobs and Skills Australia reports that median weekly earnings are not available for this 6-digit occupation. This means we cannot place a precise sonography salary on the national line. Instead, we can examine the factors that push sonographer pay above or below the national full-time average of $2,083.70 a week ($108,352 a year), drawn from the ABS Average Weekly Earnings, May 2026.
State differences in full-time earnings
State averages for all full-time adults give a starting point. The national full-time ordinary-time average is $2,083.70 a week. State figures vary:
- New South Wales: $2,108.80 ($109,658 a year)
- Victoria: $2,041.10 ($106,137)
- Queensland: $2,039.70 ($106,064)
- South Australia: $1,970.20 ($102,450)
- Western Australia: $2,227.40 ($115,825)
- Tasmania: $1,846.30 ($96,008)
- Northern Territory: $1,984.10 ($103,173)
- Australian Capital Territory: $2,290.20 ($119,090)
Sonographers working in Western Australia or the ACT are likely to earn more than the national average, while those in Tasmania or South Australia may earn less. These state averages include all full-time adults, not just sonographers, but they reflect local labour market conditions.
Award coverage and minimum rates
Most sonographers are covered by the Health Professionals and Support Services Award 2020. The Fair Work Commission's Modern Awards Pay Database includes minimum rates for health professional employees under that award. From 1 July 2026, the national minimum wage rose to $26.44 an hour ($52,255 a year on 38 hours), and award minimums increased by 4.75%. The award sets minimum pay levels for classifications such as Health Professional Level 1 to 4. Sonographers typically fall into higher levels, but the award minimums are often below the national average. Actual earnings usually exceed award rates due to experience, shift penalties, and location allowances.
Public versus private sector
The ABS data shows a gap between public and private sector full-time ordinary-time earnings. In May 2026, the public sector average was $2,263.10 a week ($117,681 a year), while the private sector average was $2,034.10 ($105,773). Sonographers in public hospitals may earn more than those in private practices, especially in states with strong public health systems. The public sector also tends to have more structured pay scales and penalty rates.
Gender and part-time work
Sonography is a female-dominated profession. Jobs and Skills Australia reports that 77% of sonographers are women, and 77% work part-time. The national full-time average for women is $1,934.50 a week ($100,594 a year), below the overall average. Part-time work reduces total annual earnings, even if hourly rates are competitive. The ABS notes that compositional differences—such as hours worked and occupation—affect the gender pay gap.
How the figures are set
The national full-time average comes from the ABS Average Weekly Earnings survey, released twice a year (May and November). It measures ordinary-time earnings for full-time adults, excluding overtime. The median full-time earnings (about $90,532 a year) and all-employees median ($74,100) come from the ABS Employee Earnings survey, August 2025. These are distinct from the average. The national minimum wage is set by Fair Work after the Annual Wage Review, effective 1 July each year.
For sonographers, the best guide is to compare state averages and award classifications. States and territories provides a breakdown of local averages. How the figures are set explains the methodology behind the national line.
Putting sonography pay in context
Without a published median or average for sonographers, we rely on broader indicators. The national full-time average of $108,352 is the line. A sonographer in a high-paying state like Western Australia, working full-time in the public sector, could earn above that line. A part-time sonographer in Tasmania on award minimums would earn below. The award minimums, while lower, are a floor; most experienced sonographers negotiate above them.
The Fair Work Commission's review of the Health Professionals and Support Services Award in 2026 (operative from 1 October) adjusted minimum rates for health professionals, addressing gender-based undervaluation. This may lift pay for some sonographers, but the impact depends on classification and employer.
Conclusion
Sonography salary in Australia is not captured by a single published figure. State location, sector, award classification, and hours worked all shift pay relative to the national full-time average. Use the state averages and award data as reference points. For a personalised estimate, consider your state's full-time average and the applicable award level.