PE Teacher Salary in Australia: State and Industry Differences Explained
Understand PE teacher salary in Australia, including award rates, state variations, and industry differences. Compare to national index and see where your pay stands.
The typical PE teacher salary ranges from around $61,000 to $98,000, with award minimums from $75,941 to $109,279 depending on classification and setting, placing it between index 70 and 101 relative to national full-time earnings.
What is a PE teacher salary?
A PE teacher salary in Australia is the pay for a physical education teacher, typically covered by the Educational Services (Teachers) Award 2020. This award sets minimum rates for teachers in schools and long day care centres, with classifications based on accreditation and experience. The keyword "pe teacher salary" refers to the earnings of these professionals, which can vary significantly by state, industry sector, and individual qualifications.
Award coverage and minimum rates
The Fair Work Ombudsman's pay guide for the Educational Services (Teachers) Award shows five levels. A graduate PE teacher (Level 1) in a preschool or school earns a minimum of $1,455.40 per week, or $75,941 per year. At Level 5 (highly accomplished or lead teacher), the minimum is $2,013.70 per week, or $105,076 per year. In long day care centres, rates are 4% higher: Level 1 starts at $78,979 and Level 5 at $109,279. These are minimums; many PE teachers earn above award, especially in private schools or high-demand areas.
State differences in PE teacher pay
State earnings indices from the Salary Index show how average full-time pay differs across Australia. For example, the ACT has an index of 109.9, meaning typical earnings are nearly 10% above the national line. Western Australia (106.9) and New South Wales (101.2) also sit above the national average. In contrast, Tasmania (88.6) and South Australia (94.6) are below. A PE teacher in a Canberra private school might earn $90,000–$100,000, while a teacher in a Tasmanian public school might be closer to the award minimum of $75,941. The states page provides more detail on local benchmarks.
Industry differences
The Education and Training industry index is 105.5, slightly above the national line. However, PE teachers can work in different settings. Those in long day care centres receive a 4% loading under the award, reflecting longer hours and fewer school holidays. PE teachers in private schools or elite sports academies may earn significantly more, sometimes exceeding $110,000. The industries page shows that Mining (154.7) and Professional services (114.7) pay more, but Education remains a stable sector with award protections.
How the salary index works
The salary index compares your gross annual pay to the national full-time adult ordinary-time earnings of $108,352 (index 100). For example, a PE teacher earning $80,000 has an index of 73.8. A teacher on $100,000 has an index of 92.3. The index helps you see where your pay sits relative to the average Australian worker. Use the how the index works page to calculate your own.
Superannuation and tax considerations
From 1 July 2026, the superannuation guarantee is 12%, meaning employers must contribute an additional 12% of ordinary time earnings into super. For a PE teacher earning $80,000, that's $9,600 per year. Tax rates for 2026–27 are progressive: 30% on income between $45,001 and $135,000, plus a 2% Medicare levy. A teacher on $80,000 would pay about $16,000 in tax and Medicare, leaving around $64,000 take-home. These figures are estimates and ignore HELP repayments or salary sacrifice.
Where to find more information
For the latest award rates, visit the Fair Work Ombudsman's pay guides page. The topics section covers related subjects like teacher classifications and state comparisons. Remember that award rates are minimums; your actual PE teacher salary may be higher depending on your employer, location, and experience.
Questions people ask
What is the award rate for a PE teacher in Australia?
PE teachers are covered by the Educational Services (Teachers) Award 2020. Minimum weekly rates for full-time teachers in preschools and schools range from $1,455.40 (Level 1, graduate) to $2,013.70 (Level 5, highly accomplished/lead teacher). In long day care centres, rates are 4% higher, from $1,513.60 to $2,094.30. Annualised, that's $75,941 to $109,279. Actual pay may be higher depending on the employer and experience.
How does state affect PE teacher salary?
While the award sets national minimums, actual PE teacher pay can vary by state due to cost of living, demand, and employer type. For example, the ACT has a high overall earnings index (109.9), while Tasmania is lower (88.6). A PE teacher in a private school in Sydney or Perth may earn above award, whereas a public school in a regional area might pay closer to the minimum. State indices from the [states](/states) page give a general guide to local earnings levels.
What is the salary index for a PE teacher?
The salary index compares gross annual pay to the national full-time adult ordinary-time earnings line of $108,352 (index 100). A PE teacher on the award minimum of $75,941 has an index of 70.1. At the PayScale average of $72,255, the index is 66.7. A Level 5 teacher in long day care earning $109,279 has an index of 100.9. Use the [how the index works](/method) page to calculate your own index.