Chef Salary in Perth (2026)

Last updated 01/06/2026

Chefs in Perth earn a median salary of $78,500 in 2026, with most advertised roles falling between $65,000 and $87,000. That sits 22% below Perth's all-roles median of $100,000. Figures are based on 37 jobs advertised on Seek.com.au in Perth in the last 30 days.

— Moderate demand 63th percentile by listing volume in Perth ↑ +7 listings vs last month

ADVERTISED RANGE

$65,000 – $87,000

Median: $78,500

Apr $77k

May $78k

→ Stable

Based on 2-month data — short-term movement only.

Mid level

$65,000 – $83,125

Salary ranges are percentiles calculated from advertised employer bands on Seek.com.au. Figures represent what employers publicly advertise and may differ from actual compensation.

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Bottom 10% $65,000 Median $78,500 $87,000 Top 10%

Understanding the Perth Market

Perth Chefs are the best-paid in Australia for this role: $78,500 in May, up $1,000 from April across 37 listings (up 7). At 21.5% below Perth's all-roles median, the resources sector gap is still pronounced, but Perth's Chef premium over the east coast ($1,000 to $2,500) is consistent. The 28% spread is tight, reflecting award structures. Adelaide is a close second at $78,000.

Take Home Pay (based on median $78,500)

Weekly (net)

~$1,172

Monthly (net)

~$5,079

Annual (net)

~$60,950

Total package (incl. 2025-26 super at 11.5%) $87,527

Take-home calculated using 2025-26 ATO tax rates, no HECS debt, full Australian residency. Total package adds 11.5% superannuation to base salary. Adjust for your situation →

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a good starting salary for a junior Chef in Perth?

Entry-level Chefs in Perth earn $65,000 to $78,500 at the mid level (36 listings). A Certificate III in Commercial Cookery is standard. FIFO mining camp cook roles in the resources sector pay considerably more than metropolitan hospitality work, with rates sometimes reaching $100,000 to $130,000 annualised for remote site catering.

Is $78,500 a good salary in Perth?

At $78,500 and 21.5% below Perth's all-roles median, this is below market in percentage terms. However, Perth's moderate living costs and the $1,000 to $2,500 premium over east coast cities make this the best-paying city for a Chef who wants to stay in metropolitan hospitality. FIFO catering roles in the resources sector are the path to a step-change in income.

How much does a Senior Chef make in Perth?

Senior Chefs in Perth with Head Chef experience can reach $83,125 at the 90th percentile in metropolitan hospitality. FIFO catering roles for mining companies, which often pay $100,000 or more annualised, are the most significant salary uplift available to experienced Chefs in WA without a management trajectory.

Chef salaries in other cities

City	Median salary	vs Perth
Perth (this page)	$78,500	—
Adelaide	$78,000	~same
Melbourne	$77,500	~same
Gold Coast	$77,000	~same
Sydney	$76,303	-3%

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