What is the minimum wage for a forensic scientist in Australia?

The legal minimum is the national minimum wage of $26.44 per hour (or $1,004.90 per week) as set by the Fair Work Commission from 1 July 2026. However, most forensic scientists are covered by a modern award (such as the Professional Employees Award 2020) or an enterprise agreement, which typically require higher pay. Check your award classification or agreement for the exact rate.

How does a forensic science salary compare to the average Australian wage?

According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics (May 2026), full-time adult ordinary-time earnings averaged $2,083.70 per week. A forensic science salary may be above or below this average depending on experience, employer, and location. Entry-level roles may start near award rates, while senior or specialised positions can exceed the average.

Is superannuation included in a forensic science salary?

No. Superannuation is paid on top of your salary. From 1 July 2026, the super guarantee rate is 12% of your ordinary time earnings. For example, if your base salary is $60,000, your employer must contribute an additional $7,200 into your super fund. This is not part of your take-home pay.

Forensic Science Salary: What Pay Floor Applies and How It Compares

There is no single award rate for forensic science; the national minimum wage of $26.44 per hour (from 1 July 2026) is the floor, but most forensic scientists are covered by the Professional Employees Award or an enterprise agreement, which sets higher rates.

Forensic Science Salary: Understanding the Pay Landscape

If you are researching a forensic science salary in Australia, it helps to separate the legal minimum from award rates, survey averages, and what you might actually negotiate. This guide explains the different pay floors and how your weekly packet looks after tax and super.

The Legal Minimum: National Minimum Wage

The Fair Work Commission sets the national minimum wage. From 1 July 2026, the adult rate is $26.44 per hour or $1,004.90 per week for a 38‑hour week (casual rate $33.05 per hour). This is the absolute floor for any employee not covered by an award or registered agreement. However, most forensic scientists work under an award or agreement that requires a higher rate.

Award Coverage for Forensic Scientists

Forensic science roles often fall under the Professional Employees Award 2020 or a similar scientific award. The Fair Work Ombudsman provides pay guides for each award. The award sets minimum rates for different classification levels (e.g., Science Graduate, Professional Scientist Level 1, etc.). These rates are higher than the national minimum. For example, a Level 1 Professional Scientist under the Professional Employees Award may earn around $30–$35 per hour (exact figures depend on the annual wage review). Always check the current award pay guide or use the Fair Work Ombudsman’s Pay and Conditions Tool.

If your employer has an enterprise agreement, that agreement may set even higher rates. The agreement must pass the better‑off‑overall test compared to the award.

Survey Averages vs. Your Salary

The Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) publishes average earnings. In May 2026, full‑time adult ordinary‑time earnings were $2,083.70 per week. This is a broad average across all industries and occupations, not a forensic science specific figure. Entry‑level forensic science salaries may start below this average, while experienced forensic scientists in government or private labs can earn above it.

The Weekly Packet: Tax, Medicare, and Super

When you see a forensic science salary figure, remember that superannuation is paid on top. From 1 July 2026, the super guarantee is 12% of your ordinary time earnings. For example, if your base salary is $70,000 per year, your employer adds $8,400 to your super fund. That money is not in your take‑home pay.

Tax and Medicare also reduce your weekly packet. Using the 2026‑27 tax rates (with the full tax‑free threshold and an estimated 2% Medicare levy once annual income exceeds $30,000), a $70,000 salary gives roughly $1,115 per week after tax and Medicare (before any offsets). The exact amount depends on your circumstances.

How to Find Your Correct Rate

Use the Which minimum wage applies page to check if you are award‑free or covered by a modern award.
See our Rate tables for the national minimum wage and junior percentages.
For award rates, visit the Fair Work Ombudsman’s website and use their Pay Calculator or download the relevant pay guide.
If you are covered by an enterprise agreement, your employer must give you a copy.

Important Notes

The national minimum wage applies only to employees not covered by an award or agreement. Most forensic scientists are covered, so the award rate is your minimum.
Junior employees (under 21), apprentices, and trainees may be paid less than the adult rate under specific provisions.
Introductory rates in some awards can be as low as $25.74 per hour for the first six months, but only if the award allows it.
The figures on this site are for orientation only. They are not a pay determination or legal advice.

Summary

A forensic science salary in Australia starts at the award minimum (typically above the national minimum) and can rise with experience and qualifications. Use the official tools from the Fair Work Ombudsman and Fair Work Commission to find your exact rate. Remember that super is an extra 12% on top, and tax and Medicare will reduce your take‑home pay.

For the published floors, see the rate tables and how the figures work.