Navigating career advancement in the Australian Public Service (APS) can be complex, especially when it comes to understanding salary structures. If you're aiming for or already occupying an Executive Level (EL1 or EL2) position, knowing your salary entitlements, benefits, and future earning potential is crucial.
This comprehensive guide breaks down everything you need to know about the APS Executive Level (EL1 & EL2) salary structure in 2025. From salary bands and classification levels to allowances, pay progression, and differences across agencies — we’ll walk you through it all. Whether you're planning your promotion, considering a job change, or negotiating your next contract, this article will give you the insights you need to make informed decisions.
What is Executive Level (EL) in APS?
The Executive Level (EL) is a senior classification within the Australian Public Service. It consists of two grades:
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EL1: First tier of executive responsibility, usually involving leadership of a small team, project management, and policy development roles.
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EL2: Higher-level strategic and managerial roles, often overseeing large teams, complex projects, or serving as senior advisors.
These levels are considered the gateway into the senior executive service (SES) and play a crucial role in shaping policies and operational frameworks across departments.
Australian Public Service (APS) EL1 Salary Structure in 2025
Overview of EL1 Roles
EL1 officers typically:
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Lead project teams or operational units.
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Provide strategic advice to senior management.
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Manage policy development, legislative reform, or regulatory programs.
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Supervise APS Level 6 (APS6) staff or contractors.
EL1 Salary Range in 2025
In 2025, the typical APS EL1 salary band ranges from:
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Minimum: AUD $111,000 per annum
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Maximum: AUD $135,000 per annum
However, the exact amount may vary based on:
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The specific agency’s Enterprise Agreement (EA).
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Geographic location (e.g., Canberra vs regional offices).
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Experience and qualifications.
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Internal classification or role complexity.
Pay Progression at EL1
Progression within the EL1 band is often based on:
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Annual performance appraisals.
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Internal merit-based advancement.
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Enterprise Agreement terms.
In many agencies, movement through pay points occurs every 12 months if performance expectations are met.
Key Agencies Offering EL1 Roles
Some top agencies where EL1 roles are common include:
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Department of Home Affairs
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Australian Taxation Office (ATO)
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Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT)
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Services Australia
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Department of Defence
Each of these may offer slightly different pay scales and benefits under their own EA.
APS EL2 Salary Structure in 2025
EL2 Roles and Responsibilities
Executive Level 2 is a highly strategic classification. EL2 staff are often:
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Senior advisors to Assistant Secretaries or Deputy Secretaries.
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Project leads on cross-agency or international programs.
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Budget owners and people leaders overseeing large teams.
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Policy drivers at the national level.
EL2 Salary Range in 2025
For 2025, the standard APS EL2 salary range is between:
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Minimum: AUD $136,000 per annum
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Maximum: AUD $168,000 per annum
Some top-tier EL2 roles can exceed AUD $180,000, especially when attached to high-cost-of-living locations or highly specialized projects.
Pay Points and Advancement
Similar to EL1, advancement through EL2 salary bands is performance-based, but progression tends to be slower due to:
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Fewer pay points.
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Higher performance expectations.
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More selective promotions.
EL2s may also receive executive bonuses or recognition payments depending on agency policies.
Top Agencies Recruiting for EL2
Examples of agencies with robust EL2 cohorts include:
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Australian Public Service Commission
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Department of Finance
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Australian Bureau of Statistics
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Attorney-General’s Department
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Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development, Communications and the Arts
Allowances and Benefits for EL1 & EL2
In addition to base salary, EL1 and EL2 staff may be entitled to several non-salary benefits, including:
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Superannuation: Generally 15.4% employer contributions under PSSap or other schemes.
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Annual Leave: Minimum of 20 working days (increases with tenure or via agency perks).
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Personal/Carer’s Leave: 18 days per year (on average).
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Remote/Regional Allowances: Varies by posting location.
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Relocation Support: For inter-state or overseas assignments.
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Vehicle or Travel Reimbursements: In some roles.
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Professional Development Funding: For executive coaching or tertiary study.
Factors Influencing Salary Differences
1. Agency-Specific Enterprise Agreements (EA)
Each APS agency operates under its own EA, which stipulates salary bands, progression rules, and conditions. For example:
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The ATO’s EL2 range may slightly differ from that of the Department of Health.
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Some agencies may offer one-off pay increases every few years.
2. Location-Based Adjustments
While most EL salaries are standardized nationally, some roles in high-cost areas like Canberra, Sydney, or Darwin may include:
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Hardship Allowances
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Accommodation Subsidies
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Relocation Incentives
3. Contractual or Specialist Roles
Some EL1 or EL2 positions — especially those in IT, cybersecurity, or legal areas — may be classified as non-ongoing contracts with higher-than-average pay due to niche skill requirements.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Progress to EL1 or EL2
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Build Experience at APS6 Level: Focus on leadership roles and policy contributions.
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Pursue Relevant Training: Take APS-endorsed leadership or management programs.
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Apply Internally First: Many promotions occur within your current agency.
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Prepare a Strong Statement of Claims: Address each selection criterion clearly.
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Network Across Departments: EL2 roles often require strong inter-agency collaboration experience.
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Consider Acting Opportunities: Temporary higher duties often lead to permanent promotions.
Summary Table: APS EL1 & EL2 Salary Bands in 2025
| Classification | Salary Range (AUD) | Common Agencies | Progression Basis |
|---|---|---|---|
| EL1 | $111,000 – $135,000 | ATO, DFAT, Home Affairs | Annual performance reviews |
| EL2 | $136,000 – $168,000+ | Finance, ABS, DFAT | Performance + vacancy availability |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the difference between EL1 and EL2 in APS?
EL1 roles are operational or mid-level management positions, while EL2 roles are strategic, involving high-level policy advice, budget oversight, and cross-agency leadership.
Is APS EL1 a good salary?
Yes. EL1 salaries exceed most private-sector mid-level salaries and come with strong benefits like superannuation and paid leave.
How long does it take to move from EL1 to EL2?
On average, 3–6 years depending on performance, role availability, and networking.
Do all APS agencies pay the same at EL levels?
No. Each agency has its own Enterprise Agreement, so pay bands can differ slightly between departments.
Can contractors be hired at EL1 or EL2 levels?
Yes. Non-ongoing or contract staff can be hired at those levels, often with similar or even higher pay.
Is there room for negotiation at the EL2 level?
Some room exists, especially in specialist roles, but base salary is usually fixed within EA bands.
Are EL1 and EL2 roles eligible for bonuses?
Some agencies offer performance bonuses or executive rewards based on project success or leadership achievements.
Can EL2s transition to SES roles?
Yes. EL2 is often the final stepping stone to the Senior Executive Service (SES) within the APS.
Final Thoughts
The APS Executive Level (EL1 & EL2) salary structure in Australia for 2025 remains highly competitive, offering professionals excellent financial rewards, job stability, and career growth opportunities. Whether you're eyeing your next promotion or already working at an EL level, staying informed about salary trends, progression policies, and agency-specific differences is essential.
To maximize your earning potential, invest in continuous skill development, build inter-agency relationships, and remain proactive in seeking acting opportunities and higher duties. The path to APS leadership begins with understanding — and this guide has equipped you with exactly that.