Leading Hand Salary in Sydney (2026)

Last updated

Leading Hands in Sydney earn a median salary of $100,000 in 2026, with most advertised roles falling between $85,000 and $133,000. That sits 10% above Sydney's all-roles median of $90,726. Figures are based on 25 jobs advertised on Seek.com.au in Sydney in the last 30 days.

— Moderate demand 33th percentile by listing volume in Sydney ↓ -1 listings vs last month
💰 Leading Hand · Sydney
ADVERTISED RANGE
$85,000 – $133,000
Median: $100,000
Apr $101k
May $100k
→ Stable

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

Mid level $85,000 – $133,000
Overall $85k–$133k Mid $85k–$133k $82k $93k $104k $115k $126k $136k
⚠ Low confidence 25 listings (-1 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. Sample size is small — treat figures as indicative.

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Bottom 10%  $85,000 Median  $100,000 $133,000  Top 10%

Understanding the Sydney Market

Leading Hands in Sydney earned $100,000 at the median in May, marginally down from April. With 25 listings (down 1), the sample is small but consistent. The 48% spread (p10 of $85,000, p90 of $133,000) is wider than Brisbane's, reflecting Sydney's more diverse industrial base and the premium some sectors apply for site leadership in high-risk or infrastructure environments. At 10.2% above Sydney's all-roles median, the role earns a real but modest premium over general market rates.

Take Home Pay (based on median $100,000)

Weekly (net)
~$1,443
Monthly (net)
~$6,253
Annual (net)
~$75,033
Total package (incl. 2025-26 super at 11.5%) $111,500

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 Leading Hand in Sydney?
Leading Hands in Sydney start at $85,000 at the p10. Entry requires full trade qualification and a demonstrated track record of team supervision. Infrastructure, utilities, and civil construction in Sydney tend to start at the higher end of this range due to union rate agreements and site allowances, while manufacturing and logistics environments sit closer to the floor.
Is $100,000 a good salary in Sydney?
Marginally. At $100,000, a Sydney Leading Hand earns 10.2% above the city's all-roles median, but Sydney is Australia's most expensive city. This income level is functional but does not afford the same lifestyle comfort as $100,000 in Brisbane or Perth. The higher end of the range ($115-$133k) is where the role becomes genuinely financially competitive in Sydney's cost context.
How much does a Senior Leading Hand make in Sydney?
Senior Leading Hands in Sydney reach $133,000 at the p90. Roles at this level are typically in high-risk industrial environments (tunnelling, rail, utilities, or oil and gas) where site allowances and shift loading are included in the advertised package. The step above Leading Hand into a foreman or superintendent role typically adds a further $20-$30k.

Other roles in Sydney

Leading Hand salaries in other cities

City Median salary vs Sydney
Sydney (this page) $100,000 —
Brisbane $100,000 ~same

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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.