how much does hr get paid in australia

How Much Does HR Get Paid in Australia?

Table of Contents
    Add a header to begin generating the table of contents

    Are you curious about the salaries of HR professionals in Australia? Wondering how much they earn for their expertise and responsibilities? Look no further as we delve into the fascinating world of HR salaries in Australia.

    In Australia, HR professionals are valued for their crucial role in managing and supporting the human resources of organisations. So, what is the average compensation they receive? On average, HR managers in Australia earn around AUD 110,000 annually, while HR advisors typically make approximately AUD 80,000 annually. However, it's important to note that these figures can vary depending on factors such as experience, location, and the company's size.

    But these numbers are just the tip of the iceberg. In our comprehensive article, we'll explore the factors influencing HR salaries in Australia in much greater detail. By the end of this article, you'll better understand the salary landscape in the HR field, empowering you to make informed decisions about your career or hiring practices. So, let's dive in and unlock the secrets behind HR salaries in Australia!

    Quick Links To Online Human Resource Management Courses

    Edith Cowan University

    Graduate Certificate of Human Resource Management Online

    • 6 months (minimum) part-time
    • 3 units
    • $13,020; FEE-HELP available

    RMIT Online

    Master of Human Resource Management

    • 2.7 years part-time
      (Reduced duration available)
    • 16 Courses (7 weeks each)
    • $4,200 per course, FEE-HELP available

    UNSW Sydney

    Master of Human Resource Management (Human Resource Analytics) (Online)

    • Duration: As little as 2 years
    • 12 courses
    • Study Intakes: January, March, May, July, September, October

    Overview of HR Roles and Responsibilities

    Professionals in human resources (HR) take on a diverse range of duties and responsibilities necessary for the effective operation of businesses and other organisations in Australia. 

    The management of personnel, the most significant asset of any firm, is the primary focus of the field of human resources (HR). HR directly influences a company's culture, productivity, and overall performance in a variety of ways, including recruiting and selection, employee development and engagement, and overall organisational success.

    how much does hr get paid in australia 1

    Recruitment and Selection

    Human resources professionals have a number of major obligations, one of the most important of which is to attract, recruit, and select appropriate applicants for job opportunities inside the organisation. They collaborate closely with the individuals in charge of hiring to learn the particular criteria that are associated with each position and devise efficient recruitment techniques. 

    HR staff members are responsible for writing job advertising, conducting resume reviews, scheduling and conducting interviews, and evaluating the candidates' abilities and credentials. HR experts assist in developing a competent labour force by conducting thorough assessments of applicants and ensuring that the selection process is fair and objective.

    Employee Onboarding and Orientation

    When the applicants have been chosen, HR takes over the onboarding process to ensure that new workers seamlessly transition into the organisation. They make it easier for new recruits to complete the relevant paperwork, tell them about the company's rules and processes, and introduce them to the people of their team and the setting in which they operate. HR experts are able to assist new workers in feeling welcome and rapidly integrating themselves into their jobs by utilising extensive onboarding programmes.

    Performance Management

    Professionals in human resources play an essential part in the management of employee performance and in ensuring that organisational goals are met. They work together with the management to determine the performance goals, carry out performance reviews, and give feedback to the employees. In order to inspire employees and cultivate a high-performance culture, HR staff may also assist in designing performance improvement goals and executing recognition and reward programmes as part of an overall incentive strategy.

    Training and Development

    It is essential for any organisation's long-term success to invest in expanding and developing its workforce. HR experts determine, design, and carry out training requirements, or they coordinate with external training providers. They will hold training sessions such as workshops, seminars, and webinars in order to improve the employees' skills, knowledge, and competencies. HR is able to assist employees in staying current with industry trends and improving their performance by assisting with continuous learning.

    Employee Engagement and Relations

    One other essential component of the responsibilities of HR is the establishment of a constructive working environment and the promotion of robust employee involvement. Human resources specialists devise plans and put those plans into action in order to boost employee morale, contentment, and overall health. 

    They may organise events to strengthen teams, programmes to recognise employees' contributions and wellness initiatives. HR is also responsible for resolving problems amongst employees, mediating disagreements, and ensuring that organisational rules and procedures are applied fairly and consistently.

    Compliance With Employment Laws and Regulations

    HR experts are responsible for ensuring that the company complies with all employment rules, regulations, and standards in their business. They ensure that they are up-to-date on any changes that have been made to laws, they monitor practices in the workplace, and they adopt policies and processes that are in line with the requirements of the law. In order to foster a just and ethical culture inside the workplace, HR staff members impart knowledge to both employees and managers on their respective rights and obligations.

    HR Administration and Record-Keeping

    The effective administration and maintenance of accurate records are essential components of HR operations. HR specialists are responsible for maintaining personnel records, which may include personal information, employment contracts, performance reviews, and training records. 

    They are in charge of payroll administration, benefits management, and leave tracking. Accurate and organised record-keeping helps human resources get the information they need when they need it and guarantees compliance with laws protecting personal data.

    Organisational Development and Strategy

    Professionals in human resources make significant contributions to the organisational growth and strategic planning processes. They collaborate closely with the upper management to determine what HR needs there are and how HR strategies might be aligned with the broader company goals. 

    HR staff can be involved in workforce planning, succession planning, and change management efforts. Human resources are able to assist the growth and resilience of an organisation by predicting future talent requirements and implementing strategies to meet those requirements.

    Average Salary Range for HR Professionals in Australia

    When one is thinking of pursuing a career in the area of human resources (HR) in Australia, it is very necessary to have a solid awareness of the various wage levels that are available for HR experts. Having a basic concept of earning potential in the HR area may give significant insights, even though pay might vary depending on aspects such as experience, credentials, industry, and location.

    According to the most recent statistics, the yearly compensation for HR specialists in Australia may range anywhere from 60,000 to 120,000 Australian Dollars (AUD). It is essential to consider that this spectrum includes a number of responsibilities, ranging from those requiring little to no experience to those requiring a great deal of expertise and leadership within the HR sector.

    Starting salary for entry-level human resources (HR) professionals, such as HR Assistants or Coordinators, is normally around AUD 40,000 to AUD 60,000 per year. It is common for individuals in these jobs to be responsible for offering assistance to the HR team, completing administrative responsibilities, and contributing to developing HR programmes and initiatives.

    Moving up the corporate ladder, HR Generalist roles often provide a greater income range, with annual pay that can vary anywhere from 60,000 to 90,000 Australian Dollars (AUD). HR Generalists are in charge of managing a wide variety of HR-related tasks, including as employee interactions, training and development, performance management, and the execution of policies. They play an important part in ensuring that the HR procedures inside the organisation run smoothly, which is an essential responsibility.

    The income potential of HR professionals grows as they get more experience and take on managerial responsibilities, such as HR Managers, throughout their careers. HR Managers are responsible for overseeing HR operations, conceiving of and putting HR initiatives into action, managing employee benefits, resolving employee complaints, and ensuring legal compliance. Annual salaries for human resource managers often vary from $90,000 to $120,000 in the Australian dollar currency.

    At the senior level, HR Directors receive even larger compensation than their lower-level counterparts. These persons are accountable for the strategic planning of HR, the management of the HR staff, and the alignment of HR practices with the organisation's overall goals. Depending on the size and complexity of the organisation, HR Directors can make anywhere from AUD 120,000 to AUD 180,000 per year, or even more, in Australia. This compensation range can go much higher.

    It is essential to keep in mind that the compensation ranges presented here are only indicative and are subject to change based on a variety of criteria, including the type of business in which the organisation is involved, the size of the organisation, and the particular tasks that are connected with the function. 

    In addition to this, the location of the HR department's office is a crucial factor in setting pay. Human resources specialists who work in large cities such as Sydney or Melbourne get greater compensation than their counterparts who work in outlying locations.

    In addition, the human resources (HR) industry provides prospects for professional development and advancement, which might result in increased earnings in the long run. HR professionals have the ability to increase their earning potential and obtain access to more lucrative roles within the industry if they continue to improve their abilities, gain experience that is relevant to their work, and pursue higher certifications.

    Factors Influencing HR Salaries

    The range of incomes earned by professionals working in human resources (HR) in Australia may be attributed to a number of different reasons. Individuals will be more equipped to make informed judgements on their chosen career path and earning potential if they have a solid understanding of these characteristics, which may give significant insights into the factors that drive HR pay.

    Education and Qualifications

    A candidate's degree of education and credentials is one of the most important variables that determine HR compensation. HR workers with higher educational degrees, such as a master's degree in HR management or a similar discipline, may be able to command better compensation in comparison to those HR professionals who simply have a bachelor's degree. 

    Additionally, certifications like the Professional in Human Resources (PHR) or the Australian Human Resources Institute (AHRI) certification can boost an individual's marketability and lead to higher-paying roles. These certifications can be obtained through organisations like the Australian Human Resources Institute (AHRI).

    Experience and Expertise

    The amount of money an HR professional makes depends heavily on their experience level. HR professionals who have worked in the field for several years and have relevant expertise are likely to earn greater compensation than those who are just starting in the field. 

    There is a general trend towards an increase in the earning potential of professionals as they grow in their careers and acquire experience in specialised fields such as employee relations, talent management, or HR analytics. Employers frequently place a high value on the information and abilities gained via hands-on experience, and this value is typically reflected in increased remuneration.

    Industry and Company Size

    The sector in which an HR professional works might affect the amount of their remuneration. It is well known that certain fields, such as finance, technology, and professional services, pay significantly greater wages than those offered in other fields. 

    In addition, the size and complexity of the organisation are factors that are taken into consideration when determining HR pay. Large multinational firms or organisations with a substantial workforce often have more complicated HR demands, which typically results in the potential for higher remuneration for HR specialists managing such activities in those organisations.

    Geographical Location

    When it comes to human resources, location is one of the most important factors to consider. The cost of living can drastically differ in big cities compared to more rural places. It is common practice in metropolitan locations with a higher cost of living and a larger job market to provide higher compensation to entice and keep HR professionals in such places. For instance, human resources professionals who work in larger cities like Sydney, Melbourne, or Brisbane may be eligible for a greater salary than their counterparts who work in more rural or less populated places.

    Company Policies and Budget

    Additionally, HR compensation might be affected by the internal regulations of the organisation as well as financial concerns. Some companies may have standardised payment structures and pay scales for HR jobs, while others may have greater leeway in establishing remuneration depending on criteria such as performance, seniority, or market demand. Some companies may even have both of these things. In addition, the financial health of the organisation as well as its profitability, might have an effect on the budget that is allotted to HR salary costs.

    Economic Conditions and Market Demand

    The state of the economy as well as the demand in the labour market for HR experts are factors that influence wage levels. In times of economic expansion and strong demand for HR skills, pay may rise as companies strive to recruit and keep experienced workers. This is because of the increased demand for HR personnel. On the other hand, compensation growth may be more sluggish when the economy is in a slump or when many qualified HR applicants compete for jobs.

    Negotiation Skills

    Last but not least, an individual's capacity for negotiating has the potential to impact their compensation. HR professionals who are skilled at negotiating job offers and lobbying for their value may have a better chance of securing larger remuneration packages for their work. Research, preparation, and the ability to confidently express one's credentials and contributions are the building blocks of effective negotiating abilities, which may be developed through time.

    Different HR Job Titles and Their Salary Ranges

    Within the realm of human resources (HR), there is a diverse assortment of job titles, each of which has a unique set of responsibilities and a pay scale that corresponds to those duties. Individuals who are considering a career in HR or who are looking to develop within the profession can benefit greatly from gaining an understanding of the numerous HR job titles and the income potential that is associated with each of those job titles. The following is a list of some typical HR job titles, along with the pay ranges that correspond to them in Australia:

    HR Assistant/Coordinator

    Within the Human Resources department, entry-level employment often consists of HR Assistants or HR Coordinators. They offer administrative support, assistance with recruiting, maintenance of personnel records, and assistance with HR initiatives, among other things. On average, annual salaries for human resources assistants or coordinators in Australia typically vary between 40,000 and 60,000 Australian Dollars (AUD).

    HR Generalist

    HR Generalists are in charge of handling a wide variety of HR-related tasks, including as recruiting, employee interactions, training and development, performance management, and the execution of policies. They are responsible for a variety of human resources activities and operate as a point of contact for employees and supervisors. Annual salaries for human resource generalists often vary from 60,000 to 90,000 Australian Dollars (AUD).

    HR Business Partner

    HR Business Partners collaborate closely with company executives to ensure that HR strategies are in line with organisational objectives. They contribute to workforce planning and talent management activities, acting as strategic consultants and providing advice on HR-related matters. The annual compensation range for HR Business Partners is typically between AUD 80,000 and AUD 120,000. AUD stands for Australian Dollars.

    HR Manager

    HR Managers are responsible for overseeing all of an organisation's HR-related operations. They are responsible for managing employee interactions, handling performance management, ensuring legal compliance, and developing and implementing HR policies and procedures. HR Managers are accountable for the entirety of the HR function and may be in charge of supervising a group of HR specialists. The annual compensation range for human resources managers in Australia is normally AU$ 90,000 to AU$ 120,000 on average.

    HR Director

    Within the Human Resources department, directors of HR have positions of high leadership. They are responsible for contributing to strategic planning, developing HR strategies, overseeing the management of HR budgets, and implementing HR programmes and initiatives. It is the responsibility of HR Directors to ensure that HR practises are in line with the goals of the organisation. The annual compensation range for HR Directors often ranges from AUD 120,000 to AUD 180,000 or more, with the exact amount being determined by the size and complexity of the organisation.

    HR Consultant

    HR Consultants can operate independently or as part of consulting firms to provide HR knowledge to businesses and organisations on a project-by-project basis. They provide expert expertise in various fields, including organisational development, change management, talent acquisition, and HR analytics. The wage range for HR Consultants varies widely based on the type of projects they work on, the amount of experience and skill they bring to the table, and so on.

    HR Specialist

    HR Specialists concentrate their efforts on one or more subfields within the larger field of human resources management, such as employee engagement, recruiting, compensation and benefits, training and development, or organisational growth. 

    They give specialised help and direction and have in-depth knowledge and skill in the different fields in which they operate. There is a variety of possible salaries for Human Resources (HR) Specialists, and it can change based on the degree of experience the specialist has as well as the difficulty of the function they do.

    It is crucial to remember that the compensation ranges that have been supplied are only estimates and that actual salaries may differ significantly depending on aspects such as the sector, the size of the firm, the geographic region, and the individual's degree of experience and credentials. Additionally, the income potential of professionals can improve within each job title as they obtain more experience and skills in their respective fields.

    how much does hr get paid in australia 2

    Trends and Growth Opportunities in the HR Field

    The human resources (HR) field is constantly evolving, driven by changes in technology, workforce dynamics, and the evolving needs of organisations. Staying abreast of the latest trends and growth opportunities in HR is essential for HR professionals looking to advance their careers and make a significant impact within their organisations. Here are some noteworthy trends and growth opportunities in the HR field:

    Emphasis on Employee Experience

    Organisations increasingly recognise the importance of prioritising employee experience to attract and retain top talent. HR professionals focus on creating positive work environments, enhancing employee engagement, and implementing initiatives promoting work-life balance, flexibility, and well-being. By investing in employee experience, organisations can foster a motivated and productive workforce, leading to improved retention rates and overall business success.

    Digital Transformation and HR Technology

    Digital transformation reshapes HR practices, automates repetitive tasks, and streamlines HR processes. HR professionals leverage technology solutions such as human capital management systems, applicant tracking systems, and employee self-service portals to streamline recruitment, performance management, training, and data analytics. HR technology and data analysis proficiency is becoming increasingly important for HR professionals to leverage these tools and drive strategic decision-making effectively.

    Focus On Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI)

    Organisations are recognising the value of building diverse and inclusive workforces. HR professionals are crucial in developing and implementing DEI initiatives, including diverse recruitment strategies, unconscious bias training, and fostering an inclusive workplace culture. By prioritising DEI, organisations can create an environment that celebrates differences, promotes innovation, and improves employee satisfaction and engagement.

    Agile HR and Workforce Planning

    Agile methodologies derived from software development practices are adopted in HR to increase flexibility and responsiveness. HR professionals embrace agile principles to adapt to changing business needs, improve collaboration, and enhance workforce planning. Agile HR practices involve iterative approaches to talent acquisition, performance management, and learning and development, allowing organisations to respond quickly to market demands and optimise their talent strategies.

    Analytics and Data-Driven HR Decision-Making

    The availability of data and analytics tools is enabling HR professionals to make data-driven decisions. By leveraging HR analytics, HR professionals can gain insights into employee performance, engagement levels, and workforce trends. This data-driven approach allows HR to identify areas for improvement, optimise talent acquisition and retention strategies, and align HR initiatives with organisational goals.

    Remote Work and Flexible Work Arrangements

    HR professionals have managed the transition to remote work, implemented virtual collaboration tools, and ensured employee well-being in remote environments. Even as the pandemic recedes, many organisations embrace hybrid work models combining remote and in-office work. HR professionals will continue to play a vital role in navigating the challenges and opportunities presented by these new work arrangements.

    Continuous Learning and Upskilling

    HR professionals recognise the importance of continuous learning and upskilling to stay relevant in the rapidly evolving HR landscape. Pursuing professional certifications, attending industry conferences and workshops, and engaging in ongoing professional development activities can enhance HR professionals' knowledge and skills. Upskilling in areas such as HR analytics, change management, and digital HR practices can open doors to new growth opportunities and make HR professionals valuable contributors to their organisations' success.

    Conclusion

    In conclusion, job seekers, as well as employers, need to have an idea of the compensation range for human resource professionals in Australia. The human resources department plays an essential part in the management of the personnel and in maintaining the seamless running of the organisation. It is crucial to give competitive pay packages to recruit and keep top personnel in the human resources profession.

    We came to this conclusion after researching the trends affecting the business and the facts about the employment market in Australia. Human resource experts in that country receive enough pay for their skills and knowledge. A wide range of salaries is available for human resources jobs, and various criteria, including experience, credentials, and location, determine these salaries.

    It is advisable to contact reputable pay surveys as well as recruiting companies that specialise in human resources roles to obtain an accurate approximation of how much human resources professionals in Australia get paid. These websites offer up-to-date information on wage ranges that are particular to certain HR jobs and sectors.

    What do you believe the typical salary to be for a human resources professional in Australia? Make an educated estimate and tell us what you think!

    Content Summary

    • In Australia, HR professionals are valued for their crucial role in managing and supporting organisations' human resources.
    • HR managers in Australia earn around AUD 110,000 annually, while HR advisors typically make approximately AUD 80,000 annually.
    • Professionals in human resources play an essential part in the management of employee performance and in ensuring that organisational goals are met.
    • One other essential component of the responsibilities of HR is the establishment of a constructive working environment and the promotion of robust employee involvement.
    • HR experts are responsible for ensuring that the company complies with all employment rules, regulations, and standards in their business.
    • Professionals in human resources make significant contributions to the organisational growth and strategic planning processes.
    • When one is thinking of pursuing a career in the area of human resources (HR) in Australia, it is very necessary to have a solid awareness of the various wage levels that are available for HR experts.
    • Annual salaries for human resource managers often vary from $90,000 to $120,000 in the Australian dollar currency.
    • At the senior level, HR Directors receive even larger compensation than their lower-level counterparts.
    • Depending on the size and complexity of the organisation, HR Directors can make anywhere from AUD 120,000 to AUD 180,000 per year, or even more, in Australia.
    • In addition, the human resources (HR) industry provides prospects for professional development and advancement, which might result in increased earnings in the long run.
    • The range of incomes earned by professionals working in human resources (HR) in Australia may be attributed to a number of different reasons.
    • A candidate's degree of education and credentials is one of the most important variables that determine HR compensation.
    • The amount of money an HR professional makes depends heavily on their experience level.
    • In addition, the size and complexity of the organisation are factors that are taken into consideration when determining HR pay.
    • Regarding human resources, location is one of the most important factors to consider.
    • Additionally, HR compensation might be affected by the internal regulations of the organisation as well as financial concerns.
    • In addition, the financial health of the organisation as well as its profitability might affect the budget that is allotted to HR salary costs.
    • Within the realm of human resources (HR), there is a diverse assortment of job titles, each of which has a unique set of responsibilities and a pay scale that corresponds to those duties.
    • Individuals who are considering a career in HR or who are looking to develop within the profession can benefit greatly from gaining an understanding of the numerous HR job titles and the income potential that is associated with each of those job titles.
    • On average, annual salaries for human resources assistants or coordinators in Australia typically vary between 40,000 and 60,000 Australian Dollars (AUD).
    • Annual salaries for human resource generalists often vary from 60,000 to 90,000 Australian Dollars (AUD).
    • HR Managers are responsible for overseeing all of an organisation's HR-related operations.
    • The annual compensation range for human resources managers in Australia is normally AU$ 90,000 to AU$ 120,000 on average.
    • Within the Human Resources department, directors of HR have positions of high leadership.
    • It is the responsibility of HR Directors to ensure that HR practises are in line with the goals of the organisation.
    • HR Specialists concentrate their efforts on one or more subfields within the larger field of human resources management, such as employee engagement, recruiting, compensation and benefits, training and development, or organisational growth.
    • There is a variety of possible salaries for Human Resources (HR) Specialists, and it can change based on the degree of experience the specialist has as well as the difficulty of the function they do.
    • The human resources (HR) field is constantly evolving, driven by changes in technology, workforce dynamics, and the evolving needs of organisations.
    • Staying abreast of the latest trends and growth opportunities in HR is essential for HR professionals looking to advance their careers and make a significant impact within their organisations.
    • By prioritising DEI, organisations can create an environment that celebrates differences, promotes innovation, and improves employee satisfaction and engagement.
    • Agile methodologies derived from software development practices are adopted in HR to increase flexibility and responsiveness.
    • HR professionals embrace agile principles to adapt to changing business needs, improve collaboration, and enhance workforce planning.
    • Agile HR practices involve iterative approaches to talent acquisition, performance management, and learning and development, allowing organisations to respond quickly to market demands and optimise their talent strategies.
    • The availability of data and analytics tools is enabling HR professionals to make data-driven decisions.
    • By leveraging HR analytics, HR professionals can gain insights into employee performance, engagement levels, and workforce trends.
    • This data-driven approach allows HR to identify areas for improvement, optimise talent acquisition and retention strategies, and align HR initiatives with organisational goals.
    • HR professionals have managed the transition to remote work, implemented virtual collaboration tools, and ensured employee well-being in remote environments.
    • Even as the pandemic recedes, many organisations embrace hybrid work models combining remote and in-office work.
    • HR professionals will continue to play a vital role in navigating the challenges and opportunities presented by these new work arrangements.
    • HR professionals recognise the importance of continuous learning and upskilling to stay relevant in the rapidly evolving HR landscape.
    • Pursuing professional certifications, attending industry conferences and workshops, and engaging in ongoing professional development activities can enhance HR professionals' knowledge and skills.
    • Upskilling in areas such as HR analytics, change management, and digital HR practices can open doors to new growth opportunities and make HR professionals valuable contributors to their organisations' success.
    • In conclusion, job seekers, as well as employers, need to have an idea of the compensation range for human resource professionals in Australia.
    • The human resources department plays an essential part in the management of the personnel and in maintaining the seamless running of the organisation.
    • It is crucial to give competitive pay packages to recruit and keep top personnel in the human resources profession.
    • Human resource experts in that country receive enough pay for their skills and knowledge.
    • A wide range of salaries is available for human resources jobs, and various criteria, including experience, credentials, and location, determine these salaries.
    • It is advisable to contact reputable pay surveys as well as recruiting companies that specialise in human resources roles to obtain an accurate approximation of how much human resources professionals in Australia get paid.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    While no specific requirement exists, a bachelor's degree in HR management or a related field is often preferred. Additionally, certifications such as the PHR or AHRI certification can boost career prospects.

     

    Many organisations offer bonuses and incentives to HR professionals based on performance and achievements.

     

    Yes, the HR field in Australia offers excellent career prospects, with opportunities for growth, advancement, and specialisation.

     

    Continuously updating your skills, gaining relevant experience, pursuing advanced certifications, and taking on additional responsibilities can help increase your earning potential in HR.

     

    HR roles related to talent acquisition, diversity and inclusion, and HR analytics are currently in high demand in Australia.

    Scroll to Top