Machine Operator Salary in Melbourne (2026)

Last updated

Machine Operators in Melbourne earn a median salary of $69,580 in 2026, with most advertised roles falling between $60,000 and $85,000. That sits 24% below Melbourne's all-roles median of $91,520. Figures are based on 32 jobs advertised on Seek.com.au in Melbourne in the last 30 days.

— Moderate demand 50th percentile by listing volume in Melbourne ↑ +10 listings vs last month
💰 Machine Operator · Melbourne
ADVERTISED RANGE
$60,000 – $85,000
Median: $69,580
Apr $71k
May $69k
↓ Trending down

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

Mid level $60,000 – $85,000
Overall $60k–$85k Mid $60k–$85k $58k $64k $69k $75k $81k $87k
Moderate confidence 32 listings (+10 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  $69,580 $85,000  Top 10%

Understanding the Melbourne Market

Machine Operators in Melbourne earned $69,580 at the median in May, down $2,050 from April, sitting 24% below the city's all-roles median. Listings increased by 10 to 32. The mild downward drift in median alongside rising listings suggests volume growth is absorbing more entry-level roles into the mix. The 36% spread from $60,000 to $85,000 is consistent and predictable. Melbourne's manufacturing base sustains reasonable demand for operators, but the pay reflects the role's position at the lower end of industrial employment.

Take Home Pay (based on median $69,580)

Weekly (net)
~$1,060
Monthly (net)
~$4,592
Annual (net)
~$55,108
Total package (incl. 2025-26 super at 11.5%) $77,581

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 Machine Operator in Melbourne?
Machine Operators in Melbourne start at around $60,000 at the p10. Most entry-level roles in this market are in food manufacturing, packaging, or general production, and require physical fitness and shift flexibility rather than formal qualifications. Reaching the $70,000 range typically takes one to two years of consistent performance and any relevant safety or machinery tickets.
Is $69,580 a good salary in Melbourne?
No. At $69,580, a Melbourne Machine Operator earns 24% below the city's all-roles median. Melbourne has high living costs, and this salary level makes independent living financially constrained without additional household income or significant overtime. The role is best understood as a stable entry point into manufacturing rather than a career salary destination.
How much does a Senior Machine Operator make in Melbourne?
Experienced Machine Operators in Melbourne reach $85,000 at the p90. This ceiling is achievable for senior operators with specialist machinery expertise, quality assurance sign-off authority, or multi-machine coverage. CNC machining or toolroom roles typically pay toward the top of this range. Advancement beyond $85,000 generally requires formal trade qualification or transition into a maintenance or technical support function.

Other roles in Melbourne

Machine Operator salaries in other cities

City Median salary vs Melbourne
Melbourne (this page) $69,580 —
Sydney $72,124 +4%
Brisbane $70,148 ~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.