Project Manager Salary in Canberra (2026)

Last updated 01/06/2026

Project Managers in Canberra earn a median salary of $160,000 in 2026, with most advertised roles falling between $116,000 and $268,500. That sits 23% above Canberra's all-roles median of $130,000. Figures are based on 22 jobs advertised on Seek.com.au in Canberra in the last 30 days.

▲ High demand Top 0% of roles by listing volume in Canberra ↓ -10 listings vs last month

ADVERTISED RANGE

$116,000 – $268,500

Median: $160,000

Apr $160k

May $160k

→ Stable

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

Mid level

$121,000 – $275,000

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% $116,000 Median $160,000 $268,500 Top 10%

Understanding the Canberra Market

Project Managers in Canberra earned $160,000 at the median in May, unchanged from April, with 22 listings (down 10). The large volume decline is the notable signal: Canberra's federal government projects have fewer listed PM opportunities this month. At 23.1% above Canberra's all-roles median, PM earns a real premium in a city where the all-roles median is already the highest in the country. The very wide 95% spread ($121,000-$275,000) reflects the full spectrum from mid-level government project coordinators to senior programme directors on major defence and digital transformation programs.

Take Home Pay (based on median $160,000)

Weekly (net)

~$2,164

Monthly (net)

~$9,378

Annual (net)

~$112,533

Total package (incl. 2025-26 super at 11.5%) $178,400

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 Project Manager in Canberra?

Project Managers starting in Canberra earn around $121,000 at the p10. Most Canberra PM roles in the government and defence sectors require Australian citizenship for security clearance purposes. Baseline qualifications include a recognised PM methodology certification and four to six years of structured project delivery experience.

Is $160,000 a good salary in Canberra?

Yes. At $160,000, a Canberra PM earns 23.1% above the city's all-roles median. Canberra's all-roles median is the highest in the country, so a 23% premium is meaningful. The city's cost of living is moderate, making $160,000 comfortable. Federal government PM roles offer job security and structured career paths not typical of private sector project work.

How much does a Senior Project Manager make in Canberra?

Senior Project Managers in Canberra reach $275,000 at the p90. These roles are typically EL2-level programme directors in major government agencies or defence delivery organisations managing multi-year, multi-supplier digital, infrastructure, or capability programs. Baseline Security Clearance (Negative Vetting Level 1 or 2) is almost always required at this seniority.

Project Manager salaries in other cities

City	Median salary	vs Canberra
Canberra (this page)	$160,000	—
Brisbane	$187,500	+17%
Melbourne	$160,000	~same
Perth	$160,000	~same
Sydney	$160,000	~same

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