Forklift Operator Salary in Sydney (2026)

Last updated

Forklift Operators in Sydney earn a median salary of $68,404 in 2026, with most advertised roles falling between $60,000 and $80,000. That sits 25% below Sydney's all-roles median of $90,726. Figures are based on 66 jobs advertised on Seek.com.au in Sydney in the last 30 days.

▲ High demand Top 16% of roles by listing volume in Sydney ↑ +23 listings vs last month
💰 Forklift Operator · Sydney
ADVERTISED RANGE
$60,000 – $80,000
Median: $68,404
Apr $65k
May $68k
↑ Trending up

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

Mid level $60,000 – $80,000
Overall $60k–$80k Mid $60k–$80k $58k $63k $67k $72k $77k $82k
Moderate confidence 66 listings (+23 vs last month) · 01/06/2026

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%  $60,000 Median  $68,404 $80,000  Top 10%

Understanding the Sydney Market

Sydney Forklift Operators earned $68,404 in May, up $3,196 from April, with 66 listings (up 23). The listing surge of 23 is the most significant demand jump for this role nationally in May, suggesting strong warehousing and logistics activity in Sydney. At 24.6% below Sydney's all-roles median, this is below market, but the demand trend is positive. Melbourne leads at $70,000.

Take Home Pay (based on median $68,404)

Weekly (net)
~$1,045
Monthly (net)
~$4,528
Annual (net)
~$54,338
Total package (incl. 2025-26 super at 11.5%) $76,270

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 Forklift Operator in Sydney?
Entry-level Forklift Operators in Sydney earn $60,000 to $68,404 at the mid level (66 listings). A valid LF licence is mandatory. Sydney's Western Suburbs logistics corridor (Wetherill Park, Smithfield, Erskine Park) is the primary employment hub for forklift operators, and afternoon shift differentials add meaningful income above the base.
Is $68,404 a good salary in Sydney?
At $68,404 and 24.6% below Sydney's all-roles median, this is a below-market salary for Sydney's cost of living. The listing surge of 23 from April indicates strong demand, which provides some negotiating leverage. Melbourne pays $1,596 more for the same licence.
How much does a Senior Forklift Operator make in Sydney?
Sydney Forklift Operators cap around $80,000 at the p90. Senior roles with multiple endorsements and WMS/RF scanner proficiency in automated distribution centres reach this ceiling. The Storeperson role ($65,000) and Delivery Driver ($60,000) are the relevant comparison roles within the same logistics career path.

Other roles in Sydney

Forklift Operator salaries in other cities

City Median salary vs Sydney
Sydney (this page) $68,404 —
Melbourne $70,000 ~same
Brisbane $69,160 ~same
Adelaide $61,616 -10%

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Data sourced from publicly listed job advertisements. Not affiliated with or endorsed by Seek or any third-party platforms. Salary ranges represent advertised figures and may differ from actual compensation. Updated monthly.