Chef Salary in Adelaide (2026)

Last updated

Chefs in Adelaide earn a median salary of $78,000 in 2026, with most advertised roles falling between $64,220 and $80,000. That is broadly in line with Adelaide's all-roles median of $78,000. Figures are based on 31 jobs advertised on Seek.com.au in Adelaide in the last 30 days.

— Moderate demand 63th percentile by listing volume in Adelaide
💰 Chef · Adelaide
ADVERTISED RANGE
$64,220 – $80,000
Median: $78,000
Apr $77k
May $78k
→ Stable

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

Mid level $64,220 – $80,000
Overall $64k–$80k Mid $64k–$80k $62k $66k $70k $74k $78k $82k
Moderate confidence 31 listings · 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.

Where does your salary sit?
Enter your salary to see where you rank.
Bottom 10%  $64,220 Median  $78,000 $80,000  Top 10%

Understanding the Adelaide Market

Chef salaries in Adelaide sit at $78,000, up $897 from April across 31 listings. Adelaide pays within $500 of Perth's $78,500 and is at the city's exact all-roles median, meaning this trade is earning at market parity. The 20% spread from $64k to $80k is among the tightest in the dataset, reflecting a role where pay is largely set by hospitality awards rather than open-market negotiation. Sous Chef roles in Melbourne pay $85,000, which is the natural next step from a Chef position.

Take Home Pay (based on median $78,000)

Weekly (net)
~$1,166
Monthly (net)
~$5,052
Annual (net)
~$60,623
Total package (incl. 2025-26 super at 11.5%) $86,970

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 Adelaide?
Entry-level Chefs in Adelaide earn $64,220 to $78,000 at the mid level. A Certificate III or IV in Commercial Cookery is the standard entry credential. Specialisation in a cuisine type (Asian, European fine dining, or pastry) and experience at a premium venue are what push pay from the award floor toward $78,000.
Is $78,000 a good salary in Adelaide?
At $78,000 and at Adelaide's all-roles median, this is a fair market salary for a skilled trade role. Adelaide has low living costs, so the purchasing power is stronger here than in Sydney or Melbourne. A Sous Chef in Melbourne earns $85,000, which is the directly comparable next title.
How much does a Senior Chef make in Adelaide?
Senior Chefs in Adelaide can progress to Head Chef, which pays $90,000 in Brisbane and $100,000 in Melbourne. Adelaide's hospitality market is smaller than the east coast capitals, so Head Chef roles are less frequent and typically require movement to a different city for the most significant pay step.

Chef salaries in other cities

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

Uncover hidden salary ranges on Seek

Paste any job URL to bypass the "competitive salary" text and see the exact employer budget instantly.

Check a Listing Install Extension

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.