How much tax do I pay on my salary in Australia?

Australian income tax for residents is calculated on a progressive scale for 2026-27: $0-$18,200 is tax-free, $18,201-$45,000 is taxed at 15%, $45,001-$135,000 at 30%, $135,001-$190,000 at 37%, and income above $190,000 at 45%. On top of this, you pay a 2% Medicare levy on your total taxable income.

What is the Medicare levy?

The Medicare levy is a 2% tax on your taxable income that helps fund Australia's public healthcare system (Medicare). Most Australian residents pay the Medicare levy. Low-income earners may receive a reduction or exemption. High-income earners without private hospital cover may also pay the Medicare levy surcharge (an additional 1-1.5%).

Do I have to pay HECS-HELP from my salary?

If you have a HECS-HELP (or other HELP) debt and your repayment income exceeds the minimum threshold ($69,528 for 2026-27), your employer is required to withhold compulsory repayments from your pay. From 1 July 2025 the system is marginal: 15% of income above $69,528 (up to $129,717), then $9,028 + 17% of income above $129,717 (up to $186,050), then 10% of total repayment income above $186,050. These repayments reduce your take-home pay.

How is take home pay calculated in Australia?

Take home pay is your gross salary minus all deductions: income tax (based on ATO tax brackets), the Medicare levy (2%), and any HECS-HELP compulsory repayments. Your employer withholds these amounts from each pay and sends them to the ATO on your behalf. The remaining amount is your net (take home) pay. Superannuation is paid on top of your salary by your employer and does not reduce your take home pay.

Take Home Pay Calculator

Calculate your after-tax take home pay in Australia, including income tax, Medicare levy, and optional HECS-HELP repayments.

Last verified: 2 August 2026

On a $70,000 salary, you'll take home approximately $56,812 per year or $2,185 per fortnight after tax and Medicare. Your actual take-home depends on HECS debt, private health insurance, and salary sacrificing arrangements.

Gross salary*

Your gross (before tax) salary amount for the selected pay frequency.

Pay frequency*

How often you are paid. The salary amount above should match this frequency.

Tax year

2026-27 applies from 1 July 2026 and includes the 16% → 15% cut on $18,201–$45,000. Switch to 2025-26 for last year's pay.

Do you have a HECS-HELP debt?

Yes

Include HECS-HELP compulsory repayment

No HECS-HELP debt

Do you have private hospital cover?

Yes

No Medicare levy surcharge applies

MLS may apply if income exceeds $105,000

Salary sacrifice to super (%)

Percentage of gross salary to sacrifice into super (pre-tax). Capped at the $32,500 concessional limit minus employer SG.

Show employer super contribution?

Yes

Show super contribution on top of salary

Only show take home pay

Popular Salary Breakdowns

See take-home pay for common Australian salaries:

Tax Breakdowns by Salary

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General information and estimates only — not legal, financial or tax advice. Always check your specific award, agreement or contract, or a qualified professional, before you rely on the result.

Take Home Pay Calculator

Popular Salary Breakdowns

Tax Breakdowns by Salary

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