A recent analysis by Seek has unveiled Australia’s highest-paying jobs in its latest Money Matters report, highlighting shifts in employee attitudes and priorities concerning work-life balance and salary increases. The report draws insights from job advertisements on Seek, reflecting current trends in the workforce.
Leading the pack are medical professions, with radiologists earning an impressive average annual salary of $236,147. They are closely followed by psychiatrists at $235,233 and general practitioners at $233,886. Other high-paying roles include medical practitioners, who earn approximately $231,955, alongside health staff specialists at $224,382, and legal firm partners at $221,781. Further down the list are construction project directors ($214,903), government and defence executive directors ($211,427), and maintenance managers in the mining, resources, and energy sector ($209,754).
Despite the attractive salaries, the Money Matters report reveals that only 36% of Australian workers feel financially secure, with many believing an income of at least $100,000 is necessary for a comfortable lifestyle. Interestingly, a significant portion of the workforce, 65%, prioritises work-life balance over higher salaries, indicating a shift in what employees value most. Moreover, the same percentage indicates a willingness to exchange some job flexibility for better pay.
Seek’s career coach Leah Lambart emphasised the challenge workers face in balancing their desire for a healthy work-life dynamic against financial pressures exacerbated by the current economic climate. She noted that employees are increasingly evaluating the totality of their work experiences, beyond just financial compensation.
As employees consider their options, the trend appears to favour negotiating benefits such as pay increases in return for increased onsite hours or compensatory time off (RDOs) for extended working hours during the month.
In summary, the top ten highest-paid jobs in Australia for 2025 are as follows:
1. Radiologist – $236,147
2. Psychiatrist – $235,233
3. General Practitioner – $233,886
4. Medical Practitioner – $231,955
5. Health and Medical Staff Specialist – $224,382
6. Legal Partner – $221,781
7. Construction Project Director – $214,903
8. Government and Defence Executive Director – $211,427
9. Manager in Mining, Resources, and Energy – $209,754
In conclusion, while the medical field dominates the highest salary brackets, the prevailing sentiment among Australian employees suggests a growing emphasis on holistic job offerings that include work-life balance and financial security, over sheer monetary gain.