In Australia, Federal Court Judges play a critical role in upholding justice, interpreting laws, and presiding over major cases. These judges are some of the highest-paid public officers in the country due to the sensitivity and importance of their duties. In 2025, the salary structure of Australian Federal Court Judges continues to reflect the high expectations, qualifications, and professional conduct required for the position.
This detailed guide covers everything you need to know about the Australian Federal Court Judge salary structure in 2025, including base pay, allowances, bonuses, career progression, and more.
Summary Table: Federal Court Judge Salary in Australia (2025)
| Position | Average Annual Salary (AUD) | Monthly Salary (AUD) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Federal Court Chief Justice | $650,000 – $715,000 | $54,166 – $59,583 | Highest-paid among all federal judges |
| Federal Court Judge | $520,000 – $570,000 | $43,333 – $47,500 | Standard rate for senior federal judges |
| Family Court Chief Justice | $530,000 – $580,000 | $44,166 – $48,333 | Equivalent to Federal Court Judge level |
| Family Court Judge | $490,000 – $530,000 | $40,833 – $44,166 | Slightly lower due to specialization |
| Federal Circuit and Family Court Judge | $450,000 – $500,000 | $37,500 – $41,666 | Includes workload-related allowances |
What is the Australian Federal Court?
The Federal Court of Australia is a superior court of record and deals with civil disputes governed by federal law (excluding family law) and some summary and indictable criminal matters. It hears matters such as bankruptcy, industrial relations, trade practices, native title, and taxation.
How Much Do Federal Court Judges Earn in Australia?
1. Base Salary of Federal Court Judges in 2025
In 2025, Federal Court Judges in Australia earn between AUD $520,000 to $570,000 annually. The exact amount depends on years of service, seniority, and jurisdiction.
This base salary is reviewed regularly by the Remuneration Tribunal, which ensures that federal judicial officers receive fair compensation relative to their peers in law and the private sector.
2. Chief Justice Salary in 2025
The Chief Justice of the Federal Court of Australia earns an average of AUD $650,000 to $715,000 per year. This makes the Chief Justice one of the highest-paid legal professionals in the country.
This pay reflects:
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Leadership responsibilities
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National representation
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Oversight of judicial functions
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Administrative duties
Allowances and Benefits of Federal Judges
Aside from the base salary, Australian Federal Judges receive generous benefits and allowances, including:
1. Accommodation Allowance
Federal Judges may receive a relocation or housing allowance, especially if posted in capital cities like Canberra, Melbourne, or Sydney.
2. Travel and Vehicle Allowance
Judges are eligible for official travel allowances, including per diem rates and use of government vehicles.
3. Security and Protocol Entitlements
Due to the nature of their work, Federal Judges receive security details and protected communication systems.
4. Pension and Superannuation Contributions
Federal Judges participate in a generous judicial pension scheme, where retirement income is calculated based on their years of service and final salary.
Career Progression of a Federal Judge in Australia
Entry Path:
To become a Federal Court Judge, individuals must have:
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At least 10 years of legal practice
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Distinguished legal experience
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An excellent reputation in advocacy or academia
Promotional Path:
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Federal Circuit Judge →
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Family Court Judge or Federal Court Judge →
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Chief Justice or Appellate Judge
Salaries increase as judges are promoted or assigned to higher courts or appellate benches.
Comparison: Federal Judge Salary vs Other Legal Professions in Australia
| Legal Profession | Average Annual Salary (AUD) |
|---|---|
| Federal Court Judge | $520,000 – $570,000 |
| High Court Justice | $635,000 – $700,000 |
| Magistrate | $280,000 – $320,000 |
| Senior Barrister (Private Sector) | $300,000 – $800,000 |
| Solicitor (10+ years experience) | $140,000 – $250,000 |
Federal Court Judges consistently rank among the top earners in Australia’s legal system.
Taxation on Federal Judge Salary in Australia
Federal Judges are subject to standard income tax laws under the Australian Taxation Office (ATO). However:
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Their superannuation contributions enjoy tax advantages
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Work-related expenses, including research and conferences, can be claimed as deductions
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Judges cannot receive performance bonuses due to the need for impartiality
Salary Reviews and Adjustments
The Remuneration Tribunal reviews judicial salaries annually, considering:
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Inflation
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Government budget provisions
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Economic conditions
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Comparisons with private-sector equivalents
Judicial salaries are independent of political influence, ensuring fairness and sustainability.
Do Australian Judges Get Bonuses?
No. Australian Federal Judges do not receive performance-based bonuses to maintain judicial independence and prevent bias. However, they may be entitled to:
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Special Service Allowance
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One-time relocation allowance
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Severance or retirement payment
Related Positions and Their Salaries
Here are other important judicial roles in Australia and their salary ranges:
| Role | Salary Range (AUD) |
|---|---|
| High Court Chief Justice | $700,000 – $750,000 |
| Family Court Judge | $490,000 – $530,000 |
| Federal Circuit Judge | $450,000 – $500,000 |
| State Supreme Court Justice | $480,000 – $540,000 |
Regional Differences in Judicial Pay
While Federal Court Judges have a standardized salary, location can affect allowances, especially for:
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Living costs
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Accommodation support
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Travel requirements
Cities like Sydney and Melbourne often incur higher cost-of-living allowances compared to regional assignments.
FAQ: Australian Federal Court Judge Salary (2025)
1. What is the average salary of a Federal Court Judge in Australia in 2025?
In 2025, Federal Court Judges earn between AUD $520,000 to $570,000 annually, depending on experience and role.
2. How much does the Chief Justice earn in Australia?
The Chief Justice of the Federal Court earns between AUD $650,000 to $715,000 annually.
3. Do Federal Judges get retirement benefits?
Yes, judges are eligible for pensions based on years of service and final salary, as well as superannuation benefits.
4. Are judicial salaries taxed in Australia?
Yes, Federal Court Judge salaries are taxed like all other income in Australia, though judges receive tax benefits on retirement contributions.
5. Is the Federal Court salary the same across all cities?
The base salary is uniform, but allowances for housing and travel may vary depending on the judge’s location.
6. Do judges receive bonuses or incentives?
No, to maintain impartiality and avoid conflicts of interest, federal judges do not receive performance bonuses.
7. Who determines the salaries of judges in Australia?
The Remuneration Tribunal is responsible for setting and adjusting judicial pay.
8. Can Federal Judges hold any other job?
No. Federal Judges are not allowed to hold secondary employment due to the importance of judicial impartiality.
9. Do Australian judges receive a housing allowance?
Yes, especially if they are relocated to a different city or live in high-cost urban areas.
10. What qualifications are needed to become a Federal Court Judge?
A minimum of 10 years of legal experience and a strong professional reputation are required.
Conclusion: Is a Federal Court Judge Salary Worth It?
Becoming a Federal Court Judge in Australia is one of the most prestigious legal careers available. The role comes with a high level of responsibility and expectations but is well-compensated with a generous salary, retirement benefits, and respect in society.
For qualified legal professionals with years of experience, the Federal Court Judge salary structure in Australia (2025) offers a rewarding career path both professionally and financially.