Top 10 Highest Paying IT Jobs in Australia (+ Salary Data)

Australia’s tech industry is booming. It’s grown by 80% in just five years and is now valued at an impressive $167 billion. With this rapid growth comes increased demand for skilled professionals and soaring IT salaries that far exceed the national average.

So if you’re wondering whether a tech career is worth exploring, this is your sign. Current salary data shows that the highest salary levels in the IT industry are attracting more people to tech careers, as professionals seek out roles with top earning potential.

If you’re starting from scratch, switching careers, or ready to level up, these jobs offer future-proof pathways across almost every industry. 

Let’s count down the top 10 highest-paying IT jobs in Australia.

Tech jobs aren’t just about high salaries. They’re about growth, flexibility, and the chance to work at the edge of innovation. As more industries rely on artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and cloud solutions, the need for skilled IT professionals is only rising. Entry-level roles are plentiful, providing excellent starting opportunities for those looking to break into the tech industry. And with the right training, it’s possible to move into six-figure positions faster than in many other fields.

The IT job market in Australia is experiencing unprecedented growth, fuelled by the rapid adoption of emerging technologies like artificial intelligence, cloud computing, and advanced machine learning models.

According to Jobs and Skills, employment in the IT sector is expected to continue growing at a rate of 3.8% per annum until 2030, far outpacing most other industries. This surge is creating a wealth of high-paying IT jobs, with companies across the country competing for skilled professionals who can drive innovation and manage complex systems.

Roles in data science, cyber security, and network architecture are especially in high demand, as organisations look to harness the power of data analysis and protect their digital assets. As a result, IT professionals with advanced skills, relevant education, and hands-on experience are commanding six-figure salaries and enjoying a wide range of job opportunities.

The message is clear: The IT job market is thriving, and those who keep their skills sharp are well-positioned to succeed.

10. DevOps Engineer

Average Salary: $120,000

DevOps engineers streamline how software is built, tested, and deployed. They act as the crucial bridge between development and operations teams, automating workflows and improving collaboration to deliver better, faster, and more reliable systems. Their work ensures continuous integration and continuous delivery (CI/CD) pipelines run smoothly, reducing downtime and accelerating innovation.

Key skills:

• Docker, Kubernetes
• Scripting (Python, Bash)
• Cloud platforms (AWS, Azure)
• Automation tools (Jenkins, Ansible)
• Problem solving and communication

How to get there: Many start in software development or system administration roles. Building expertise in DevOps tools and practices through certifications and hands-on projects is essential, and gaining experience with cloud infrastructure and automation will greatly enhance your prospects.

Why it pays: DevOps engineers speed up software delivery while maintaining system stability, which is a valuable combination that drives business success and innovation in the fast-paced IT sector.

9. Full Stack Developer

Average Salary: $143,750

Full-stack developers build the digital tools we use every day—from web apps to cloud systems, including a wide variety of software applications. They’re skilled in both front-end and back-end coding, enabling them to create seamless user experiences while managing server-side logic and databases.

Working across diverse industries, full-stack developers are versatile problem solvers who bridge the gap between design and functionality, often collaborating closely with product managers and designers to deliver end-to-end solutions.

Key skills:

• JavaScript, HTML, CSS
• Frameworks like React, Angular
• Cloud platforms (AWS, Azure)
• Database management

How to get there: Start with a coding bootcamp or short course. Build projects to showcase your skills and grow your portfolio. Earning a degree in computer science or a related field can also help you advance to more senior roles and increase your earning potential.

Why it pays: Companies want people who can do it all, and full-stack developers bring versatility and value.

8. Software Development Manager

Average Salary: $155,000

These leaders manage tech teams, often leading teams of software developers, and oversee major software projects. They combine deep technical expertise with strong project and people management skills. Their role involves coordinating cross-functional teams, setting development standards, and ensuring timely delivery of high-quality software applications.

Key skills:

• Software engineering
• Agile project management
• Leadership and communication

How to get there: Work your way up from developer roles. Then, add leadership experience and certifications in Agile or Scrum.

Why it pays: They keep projects on track, on time, and on budget, delivering real business value.

7. Data Scientist

Average Salary: $168,750

Data scientists turn raw information into powerful insights. Their work guides business decisions, from customer trends to product innovation. They analyse large datasets using advanced statistical methods, machine learning models, and predictive analytics to uncover patterns and forecast future outcomes.

Their expertise spans data wrangling, programming languages like Python and R, and data visualisation tools such as Power BI and Tableau, making them invaluable in today’s data-driven economy.

Key skills:

• Python, R, SQL
• Machine learning
• Data visualisation (Power BI, Tableau)

How to get there: Short courses and bootcamps are great for career changers. Build a project portfolio to stand out. Earning a master’s degree can open doors to senior data science roles and specialised career advancement.

Why it pays: Businesses need data, but few know how to unlock its full potential. That’s where data scientists shine.

6. Solutions Architect

Average Salary: $176,250

Solution architects design the big picture. They map out how tech systems should work and ensure all parts fit together seamlessly. This role requires a deep understanding of systems integration, cloud architecture, and business needs.

Solution architects collaborate with stakeholders across technical and non-technical teams to translate complex requirements into scalable, efficient solutions.

Key skills:

• Systems integration
• Cloud architecture (AWS, Azure, GCP)
• Communication & leadership

How to get there: Start as a developer or systems engineer, then upskill with certifications like AWS Certified Solutions Architect.

Why it pays: Their decisions shape multi-million dollar projects. Getting it right is critical and well rewarded. The growing demand for scalable and secure cloud solutions, especially amid digital transformation, has led to a surge in job openings for solutions architects.

5. Enterprise Architect

Average Salary: $182,500

Enterprise architects align an organisation’s tech strategy with its business goals. They shape the digital direction of a whole company by designing comprehensive IT frameworks that ensure all systems and technologies work together effectively.

Key skills:

• Broad IT knowledge across multiple domains
• Strategic planning and business acumen
• Frameworks like TOGAF and Zachman
• Strong communication and leadership abilities

How to get there: Gain experience across multiple IT roles, especially in systems architecture, project management, and business analysis. Pursuing strategic skills, such as an MBA or certifications in enterprise architecture, can significantly enhance your prospects.

Why it pays: Enterprise architects make critical decisions that influence the entire organisation’s technology landscape, directly impacting business success and competitive advantage.

Key skills:

• Broad IT knowledge
• Strategic planning
• Frameworks like TOGAF

How to get there: Gain experience across multiple IT roles, especially across various sectors. Strategic skills (like an MBA) can help.

Why it pays: They make the tech decisions that drive success—or failure.

4. Cyber Security Architect

Average Salary: $193,750

Cyber security architects build systems that protect organisations from cyber threats. In a world of data breaches, they’re essential. These professionals design and implement comprehensive security architectures that safeguard networks, applications, and data from increasingly sophisticated cyber attacks. 

They evaluate existing security measures, identify vulnerabilities, and develop strategies to mitigate risks while ensuring compliance with industry standards and regulations.

Key skills:

• Security frameworks (ISO, NIST)
• Network and system design
• Risk management
• Security management
• Information security systems

How to get there: Start in security analysis or engineering, then specialise. Certifications like CISSP and CISM are highly valued. AI technologies are increasingly important in modern cyber security strategies, enabling advanced threat detection and response.

Why it pays: One breach can cost millions. Their job is to stop it before it starts.

3. IT Project Director

Average Salary: $190,000

Project directors lead large-scale tech projects. They are responsible for overseeing all aspects of these initiatives, from managing budgets and coordinating diverse teams to ensuring deadlines are met and project goals align with business objectives. This role requires strong leadership, excellent communication skills, and the ability to navigate complex stakeholder relationships

Key skills:

• Project and program management (Agile, PRINCE2)
• Budgeting and stakeholder engagement
• Risk management

How to get there: Work your way up through project management roles. Certifications help build credibility.

Why it pays: They deliver complex, high-stakes projects, and businesses pay well for peace of mind. Demand for IT project directors has increased significantly compared to previous years, reflecting the growing need for experienced leaders in technology initiatives.

2. Chief Information Security Officer (CISO)

Average Salary: $279,000

CISOs lead cyber security strategy at the highest level. They’re responsible for keeping entire organisations safe by developing and enforcing comprehensive security policies, managing risk assessments, and responding swiftly to cyber incidents.

Their role involves coordinating with various departments to ensure compliance with industry regulations and standards, such as ISO and NIST, while also overseeing the deployment of advanced security technologies like firewalls, encryption, and intrusion detection systems.

Key skills:

• Cybersecurity leadership
• Compliance and risk management
• Crisis response

How to get there: Build a deep foundation in cyber security. Leadership experience and certifications are essential.

Why it pays: The stakes are high—protecting sensitive data in a digital world is a serious job.

1. Chief Information Officer (CIO)

Average Salary: $300,000

The CIO sets the technology vision for the entire business and plays a pivotal role in aligning IT strategy with overall organisational goals. While the CIO is often the highest paying job and among the most highly compensated roles in IT, other leadership positions like the Chief Technology Officer (CTO) and Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) are also top paying in the industry.

Key skills:

• Strategic planning
• IT operations
• Executive leadership
• Understanding both strategic and technical aspects of IT leadership

How to get there: Gain experience across IT, then add business acumen (like an MBA). Experience as an it manager is a common stepping stone to the CIO role. Lead major initiatives to build credibility.

Why it pays: The CIO’s influence is organisation-wide. They shape the future—and earn accordingly.

Innovation is at the heart of the IT industry’s explosive growth, with emerging technologies like quantum computing, artificial intelligence, and machine learning reshaping the landscape of high-paying IT jobs.

To stay ahead in this fast-evolving sector, IT professionals must continually update their skills and knowledge. Mastery of cyber security, risk management, and IT management is increasingly important, as is staying informed about the latest advancements in cloud technologies and machine learning.

Those who embrace these changes are finding themselves in line for some of the highest-paying roles in the industry, including chief technology officer, machine learning engineer, and software developer.

By combining technical expertise with a willingness to adapt, IT professionals can secure high salaries and build rewarding careers in one of Australia’s most dynamic and future-focused industries.

Good news: You don’t need to be a tech expert to begin. Entry-level roles and beginner-friendly courses are everywhere. There are plenty of entry-level jobs in IT, offering practical experience and a pathway to more advanced positions.

Here’s how to get started:

• Explore beginner IT courses
• Learn in-demand skills like coding, cybersecurity, or cloud computing
• Stay up to date with new technologies to remain competitive in the industry
• Build a portfolio or gain experience through internships and projects
• Compare flexible options on Training.com.au

Whether you’re exploring new options, pivoting from another career, or levelling up, there’s never been a better time to join the tech world. The industry is growing. The salaries are rising. And the pathways are more accessible than ever.

So what are you waiting for? Start your IT journey today and browse courses below.