Laboratory Technician Salary Australia: Pay, Scope & More 2025

Written by

Sukanta Bera

Fact check by

Divyansh Chaudhari

Updated on

Aug 28,2025

Laboratory Technician Salary Australia: Complete Salary Guide - TerraTern

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Laboratory Technician Salary Australia receive decent wages in 2025, and the average yearly salary is AUD 91,116. The annual wages of a medical laboratory technologist are approximately AUD 87,700, with a minimum wage of AUD 41,900 for entry-level employment positions, and the maximum wage is significantly higher, amounting to AUD 138,700 for top jobs and aspects of the position in leading work. City by city, cities like Sydney, Melbourne, and Perth tend to have a higher pay rate, with most exceeding AUD 85,000. Regions like Western Australia record a pay rate of approximately AUD 69,826.

Educational background is also a key factor in determining salaries--those with advanced degrees can be paid significantly more, particularly in the teaching or research field. The remuneration offered by the governmental employers is approximately 5 per cent better in comparison with that provided by the privately owned organisations, and such famous organisations as WA Country Health Service and St Vincent Health Australia can be considered as very competitive in terms of remuneration provided.

 

What are the Current Laboratory Technician Salaries in Australia 2025?

A person looking in a microscope in a lab; Laboratory Technician Salary Australia: TerraTern

There has been a gradual increase in the salary of laboratory technicians in Australia, which indicates both increasing demand and quality obligation. The average income in 2025 is AUD 91,116 overall. The entry range of laboratory technicians in Australia starts with an average pay of AUD 50,000 to AUD 60,000 and can go up to AUD 70,000 depending on the number of years of experience and added skills.

Level of Experience

Annual Salary Range (AUD)

National Mean

91,116

Entry-Level (0-2 years)

50,000 - 60,000

Experienced (5+ yrs)

70,000+ 

 

Medical Laboratory Technician Salary Australia Breakdown (2025)

The hired medical laboratory technicians get paid both on an hourly basis and annually, with a possible bonus. In 2025:

  • Hourly Rate: AUD 27.59 (Range: AU$24- AU$35)

  • Annual Equivalent: AUD 57387

  • Bonus: Between AUD 0 and 2,000 due to the employer and performance.

Factor

2025 Value

Hourly Rate

27.59 (A$24–A$35)

Annual Salary

57,387

Bonus Range

0–2,000

 

Laboratory Technician vs Medical Laboratory Technician Earnings (2025)

Laboratory technicians also tend to earn a higher overall compensation and have higher pay growth with experience. In contrast, medical laboratory technicians can earn comparable salaries on an hourly basis and must therefore receive lower bonuses.

Position

Average Salary (AUD)

Hour Pay (AUD)

Possible Bonus (AUD)

Laboratory Technician

91,116

~44 (annual basis)

0–2,000

Medical Laboratory Tech

57,387

27.59

0–2,000

These facts can assist in the responses to typical voice search requests, such as "How much can lab techs make in Australia in 2025?" or "What is the average salary of the rector of a medical laboratory in Australia this year?" They provide valid knowledge to job seekers and employers.

Also Read: Physiotherapist Salary Australia: Here Are the Latest Figures

What is the Medical Laboratory Technician Salary by Australian States in 2025?

Medical laboratory technicians Australia can expect varying salaries across different regions in the country, including cost-of-living variances and local demands. It is seen below that a detailed comparison with city highlights and employer data has been made to optimise local search and help with long-tail queries.

Medical Laboratory Technician Salary in South Australia (2025)

The medical laboratory technician salary in South Australia:

  • Average Wage Across the State: $84,993 in a year

  • Adelaide (Large City): 84,192 annual, or approximately 40 an hour

  • Department Education SA: 81752 a year

Laboratory Technician Salaries by State Comparison (2025)

The laboratory technician salaries by state comparison are:

State

Major City

Major Employer/City

Average Annual Salary (AUD)

South Australia

Adelaide

Dept for Education SA

84,993 

New South Wales

Sydney

NSW Health

68,110 

Western Australia

Perth

WA Country Health Service

69,826 

Victoria

Melbourne

Austin Health/Major Employers

65,021 

Queensland

Brisbane

QLD Government/Regional

70,000 

Key Insights

  • The highest and most likely are in respect of South Australia (particularly Adelaide), and are probably related to the public sector pay rates and lower living costs.

  • SW (including Sydney) and Victoria (Melbourne) also have lower average wages compared with South Australia, although living expenses in these states are also higher.

  • In Western Australia, salaries are at par with those of the region, and in Queensland, there is a trend of variation depending on employer and locational variations.

What are the Factors Affecting Laboratory Technician Salaries in Australia for Indians in 2025?

Laboratory Technician Salary Australia: A person in a lab looking at a specimen; TerraTern

The amount of money that lab technicians in Australia earn varies depending on several factors, which all influence career paths and remuneration. Knowing more about these influencers can assist up-and-coming professionals and seasoned professionals alike to make more informed decisions regarding qualifications and certifications, as well as job changes.

Key Factors Impacting Salary

  • Experience: The salaries would increase significantly with experience in the field.

  • Education: With higher education, employees will receive higher salaries and have a chance to take up senior positions.

  • Specialised Certifications: The better-paid certifications are specialised, such as AIMS (Australian Institute of Medical Scientists).

  • Public Sector Employment: Public sector jobs can pay higher and more substantial benefits than most individual employers.

  • Location: Salaries in different states and cities should be characterized by differences in cost-of-living, demand, and competition in the workforce.

  • Specialisation: Segregation of technicians in medical/clinical and research sectors is more rewarding than general laboratory workers.

Experience Level Impact on Medical Laboratory Technician

The experience level impact on medical laboratory technicians is:

  • 2-5 years: $57,200 per year

  • 3-5 years: 63,400 USD/ docs

  • Less than 10 years: 94,100 / year

  • 10+ years: $112 700+ annually

Education and Qualification Requirements

The education and qualification requirements are:

  • Certificate III in Laboratory Skills: Entry-level roles; provide a basis-level pay.

  • Bachelor's Degree: The average earning becomes slightly better at around 63,400 and opens up to more technical jobs.

  • Master's Degree: Can maximise yearly compensation to $118,900, and is of vital necessity to attain advanced research/leadership roles.

  • AIMS Certification: It is a nationally recognised certification that is necessary to progress in a career and access medical scientist positions.

Occupational(Monetary) Group Column Factor Typical Annual Salary (AUD)

Factor

Typical Annual Salary (AUD)

Entry-Level (Cert III)

47,800

Bachelor's Degree

63,400

5-10 Years Experience

94,100

Master's Degree

118,900

10+ Years Experience

112,700+

AIMS Certification

Higher potential

Also Read: Pharmacist Salary Australia: New Pay, Scope & Career

What are Public vs Private Sector Laboratory Technician Salaries in Australia?

A breakdown of each heading of the section, Public vs Private Sector Laboratory Technician Salaries, can be found below:

Public Hospital Laboratory Position

Level ANZ

Salary Rate (AUD/h)

ANZ Salary (AUD/a)

Notes

NSW Health Average

68,110

Average salary across NSW Health

Entry-Level Medical Lab Tech

47.91

Hourly beginning compensation

Senior Medical Lab Technician

94,999

Higher pay for senior positions 

 

Private Pathology Laboratory Salaries in Australia

The private pathology laboratory salaries are:

Position

Hourly Rate (AUD)

Annual Salary (AUD)

Notes

Entry-Level Lab Assistant

25

Average wage at the beginning of the career in non-governmental forms

Private Sector Average

5 per cent less than in public

Their average pay tends to be less than that of the general population

ALS Global Average

61,118

Salary of an example employer privately

 

 

What are the Career Progression and Salary Growth for Medical Laboratory Technicians in Australia 2025?

Chemicals in test tubes; Laboratory Technician Salary Australia: TerraTern

There is a clear career ladder for medical laboratory technicians in Australia with significant opportunities for salary increases and promotions. Beginning at entry-level junior status, employees can gradually acquire increased responsibility, specialise in complex technical fields, and become senior managers. Such a career growth path raises expertise levels, alongside causing a significant pay rise over time.

Junior to Senior Laboratory Technician Path in Australia

Career Stage

Experience Range

Role Focus

Average Salary (AUD)

Notes

Junior Technician

0-2 years

Foundation gaining skills

47,800

Basing learning on the core lab

Standard Technician

2-5 years

Core responsibilities

63,400

Performing routine laboratory tasks

Senior Technician

5-8 years

Special duties

94,100

Complex duties, instructing

Lead/Principal Technician

8+ years

Management duties

112,700+

Supervising and leading a team, managing the laboratories

 

Advancement to Medical Laboratory Scientist in Australia

The advancement of medical laboratory scientists is:

Stage of Advancement

Requirements

Average Salary Increase (AUD)

Notes

Medical Laboratory Scientist

Additional qualifications, AIMS exam

+78,584

The certification through AIMS is required.

Research Opportunities

More training and experience,

86,523

Higher compensation for research activities

Also Read:  Doctor Jobs in Australia: Average Pay, Scope & More

What are the Regional Salary Variations for Laboratory Technicians in Australia 2025?

In laboratory technicians, the difference between metropolitan and regional areas regarding pay is immense, with the capital cities being higher in introductory payment rates. In contrast, they are rewarded in other ways by regional areas to attract and retain expert technicians. Knowing regional differences is also crucial in effective planning, whether for a career or a place of work.

Metropolitan vs Regional Opportunities

Capital cities: Higher base salaries

  • Laboratory technicians working in major metropolitan centres—Sydney (AUD 87,600), Melbourne (AUD 86,600), and Perth (AUD 85,500)—command the highest average pay thanks to heightened demand and a more expensive cost of living.

  • Metropolitan centres draw on sophisticated laboratory infrastructure, extensive research facilities, and leading hospitals to support the payment of premium salaries.

Regional Incentives: Relocation Bonuses

  • To lure the laboratory professionals, regional areas often make available additional financial grants, relocation assistance, and housing allowances.

  • The Workforce Incentive Program furnishes financial assistance of AUD 4,500–AUD 60,000 to medical professionals practising in regional, rural, and remote communities (Modified Monash Model 3-7).

  • The priority visa sponsorship opportunity is open to international laboratory technicians who are willing to work in regional locations.

Cost-of-Living Adjustments

  • Although regional salaries seem modest in their printed form, the low cost of living commonly translates into greater purchasing power and a better overall quality of life.

  • In regional locations, living, transportation costs, and general living costs are much cheaper than in capital cities.

Remote Area Benefits

  • Other allowances, such as subsidised accommodation, car allowances, and even funding of professional development, are often provided in remote roles.

  • Workforce incentive schemes that offer flexible payment arrangements deliver supplementary payments to eligible professionals.

Location Type

Average Salary Range (AUD)

Additional Benefits

Cost of Living Impact

Capital Cities (Sydney/Melbourne)

85,500 - 87,600

Limited

High living costs

Regional Centers

70,000 - 80,000

Relocation bonuses, housing allowances

Moderate living costs

Remote Areas

65,000 - 75,000

Significant incentives (up to 60,000)

Low living

What are the Benefits and Total Compensation Packages as a Laboratory Technician in Australia?

A female chemist in a lab; Laboratory Technician Salary Australia - TerraTern

Within Australia, laboratory technicians typically secure all-encompassing packages—offerings that amount to 15–25% more than their base salary—supported by obligatory benefits and a spectrum of healthcare-worker incentives.

Mandatory Benefits:

  • Superannuation

  • Medicare is a universal healthcare coverage

  • The opportunities that healthcare professionals can enjoy include tax benefits:

  • Every year, a pre-tax sum of $9,010 is allocated for living expenses.

  • A $2,650 Meal/Entertainment Allowance

  • Savings package: total up to $3,644 in additional take-home pay.

Leave Entitlements:

  • 4 weeks’ annual leave, inclusive of loading

  • Sick leave of 2–3 weeks, wherein accrual occurs.

  • After seven to ten years’ service, the benefit entitlement is for long-service leave.

Sector Differences

Benefit

Public

Private

Base pay

5% higher

Market rate

Job security

High

Variable

Development funding

Comprehensive

Limited

Also Read: Clinical Psychologist Salary in Australia

How to Increase Your Laboratory Technician Salary in Australia?

Strategy

Action Steps

Expected Salary Increase

Timeline

Gain Experience

Progress from junior to senior roles

$47,800 → $112,700+

0-10+ years

Pursue Higher Education

Complete a bachelor's or master's degree

Certificate III → $118,900 (Master's)

2-4 years

Obtain Professional Certification

Pass the AIMS examination for medical scientists

+$78,584 average increase

6-12 months

Specialise in High-Demand Areas

Focus on medical/clinical laboratory work

+$20,000-$30,000 premium

1-2 years

Change Employers

Move to the public sector or higher-paying organisations

+5-15% salary boost

Immediate

Relocate to Higher-Paying States

Move to South Australia or major cities

$68,110 → $84,993

3-6 months

Take on Leadership Roles

Progress to supervisor or management positions

$94,100-$112,700+

5-8 years

Add Research Experience

Transition to research associate roles

Average $86,523

2-3 years

 

What is the Future Outlook for Laboratory Technician Salaries in Australia?

Laboratory Technician Employment Growth Projections (2025-2030)

Metric

Current (2025)

Projected (2030)

Growth Rate

Medical Technician Roles

39,800 positions

48,000+ positions

20.7% increase

Healthcare Sector Jobs

70,200 recent additions

100,000+ additions

Continuous expansion

Full-time Employment Rate

72%

75-80%

Sustained demand

 

Technology Impact on Salary Growth for Laboratory Technician

Technology Area

Skill Premium

Salary Impact

Timeline

Automation & Robotics

High demand

+15-25% above base

2025-2027

Bioinformatics

Specialized

+20-30% premium

2026-2028

Data Analysis

Essential

+10-15% increase

2025-2026

Quality Assurance

Regulatory focus

+12-18% boost

2025-2030

Also Read: Best After BSc Nursing Job Opportunities: Latest Guide

Latest Facts & News 

  • Current Average Salary: Laboratory technicians earn $91,116 per year on average across Australia as of July 2025

  • Medical Lab Tech Premium: Medical laboratory technicians earn $27.59 per hour, translating to approximately $57,387 annually

  • State Variations: South Australia offers competitive rates at $84,993 annually, 7% above national averages

  • Public vs Private: NSW Health pays approximately $68,110 for laboratory technicians, while private pathology starts at $25/hour

  • Career Growth: Senior positions can reach $130,500 annually with 20+ years of experience

  • Job Market Growth: Medical technician roles projected to grow 20.7% by 2026

 

Conclusion

Laboratory technician salaries in Australia have shown a solid increase and remarkable appreciation in value in 2025, with a vast array of compensation plans that go far beyond displayed base pay. The average salary of current laboratory technician in Australia is AUD 91,116 yearly, with an AUD 87,700 medical technician salary Australia, which is only core compensation, as the overall medical professional remuneration can be boosted by 15-25 per cent using superannuation, health benefits, and salary packaging incentives. Location is an essential factor influencing earning levels substantially, with the medical laboratory technician salary in South Australia ranking highest in the country at AUD 84,993 mean, a key reason why location planning can be a lucrative strategy in terms of earning potential as well as living expenses.

The medical laboratory technician salary Australia market indicates strong career growth, with entry-level jobs paying about AUD 47,800 and experienced workers receiving more than AUD 112,700 and according to the AIMS, certification has the potential to add an average of AUD 78,584 to the base wages. The medical laboratory technician salary is expected to soar to AUD 120,000-140,000 after 2030. The South Australia opportunity in medical laboratory technician salary is a position that, with other regional opportunities such as regional incentives of up to AUD 60,000 on top of base salaries, allows attracting skilled professionals to the underserved area.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the average laboratory technician salary Australia?

The average laboratory technician salary Australia is AUD 91,116 annually as of 2025. Medical laboratory technologists earn around AUD 87,700 per year on average. Total compensation packages, including superannuation and healthcare benefits can increase value by 15-25%.

What is the starting salary for a laboratory technician in Australia?

Entry-level laboratory technicians typically earn between AUD 50,000-60,000 annually, with the lowest starting point around AUD 47,800. Junior positions (0-2 years experience) focus on foundation building and basic laboratory procedures. Starting salaries vary significantly by location, with major cities offering higher base rates.

How much do medical laboratory technicians earn per hour in Australia?

Medical laboratory technicians earn an average of AUD 27.59 per hour, with hourly rates ranging from AUD 24-35. Entry-level positions in public hospitals like NSW Health can earn up to AUD 47.91 per hour. Private sector hourly rates are typically around AUD 25 for entry-level lab assistants.

Which Australian state pays the highest laboratory technician salaries?

South Australia offers the highest average laboratory technician salaries at AUD 84,993 annually, particularly in Adelaide. NSW Health averages AUD 68,110, while Western Australia averages AUD 69,826. Major cities like Sydney and Melbourne command premium rates despite state averages.

What qualifications are needed to become a laboratory technician in Australia?

Entry-level positions require Certificate III in Laboratory Skills for basic roles. Bachelor's degrees in medical laboratory science or related fields are preferred and increase average earnings to AUD 63,400. AIMS certification is essential for advancement to medical laboratory scientist roles with significant salary premiums.

How does experience affect laboratory technician salary progression?

Experience dramatically impacts salary growth from AUD 47,800 (0-2 years) to AUD 112,700+ (10+ years). Mid-career professionals (5-8 years) earn around AUD 94,100 annually in senior technician roles. Each experience level brings increased responsibilities and specialized skills that command higher compensation.

What is the difference between public and private sector laboratory technician salaries?

Public sector roles typically offer 5% higher salaries than private sector positions, with NSW Health averaging AUD 68,110. Private companies like ALS Global average AUD 61,118 annually but may offer performance bonuses. Public positions also provide superior job security and comprehensive benefits packages.

How much can laboratory technicians earn with advanced qualifications?

Master's degree holders can earn an average of AUD 118,900 annually in specialised or research roles. AIMS certification can add approximately AUD 78,584 to base salaries for medical laboratory scientist positions. Research associate roles average AUD 86,523 with opportunities for further advancement.

What are the salary benefits and total compensation for laboratory technicians?

Beyond base salary, laboratory technicians receive 11% superannuation contributions and can access up to AUD 9,010 in tax-free salary packaging benefits. Healthcare workers can save up to AUD 3,644 annually through salary packaging, plus comprehensive leave entitlements. Total compensation packages often exceed base salary by 15-25%.

What is the future salary outlook for laboratory technicians in Australia?

Laboratory technician salaries are projected to grow strongly through 2030, with 20.7% employment increase expected by 2026. Entry-level salaries may reach AUD 55,000-65,000 by 2030, while experienced professionals could earn AUD 120,000-140,000. Specialized technology roles may command AUD 150,000+ as automation and digital skills become essential.