SES Band 1, Band 2 & Band 3 Salary Structure in the Australian Public Service (2025)

The Senior Executive Service (SES) is the elite leadership tier within the Australian Public Service (APS), tasked with shaping national policies and overseeing vital departments that impact the lives of millions. Understanding the SES Band 1, Band 2, and Band 3 salary structure in 2025 is crucial not just for government workers, but for job seekers, policy analysts, and even private sector professionals aiming to engage with the public sector.

These roles aren’t just about high salaries. They come with deep responsibilities, strategic influence, and often intense public accountability. Whether you're eyeing a leadership role in government, trying to benchmark public sector salaries, or simply curious about how the highest levels of the APS are compensated, this guide will break it all down.

In this article, you’ll find:

• A clear breakdown of SES Band 1, Band 2, and Band 3 roles

• The salary structure and pay progression in 2025

• Allowances, bonuses, and non-monetary benefits

• Real examples from APS agencies

• FAQs and steps for those aiming to climb into SES roles

Let’s get into the details.

Understanding the SES Bands in the APS Hierarchy

The SES system is divided into three core bands:

• SES Band 1 – Entry-level executive leadership

• SES Band 2 – Middle to upper management with strategic oversight

• SES Band 3 – The top tier, often Deputy Secretaries or equivalents

These bands are designed to ensure strategic leadership and administrative continuity across the Australian Government. Positions in these bands are distinct from regular APS classifications like APS Level 1 to EL2 (Executive Level 2), which are just below SES level.

Unlike the more rigid salary structures in junior APS levels, SES salaries are more flexible. Agencies can negotiate within an approved band range often determined by enterprise agreements, remuneration tribunals, and government policies.

SES Band 1 Salary Structure in the APS (2025)

Overview of Band 1 Roles

SES Band 1 roles typically include titles like:

• Assistant Secretary

• Director of major projects or programs

• Executive leadership in policy, operations, or finance

These individuals manage large teams, oversee budgets in the tens of millions, and are expected to contribute to national strategy while ensuring agency-level performance.

2025 Salary Range for SES Band 1

As of 2025, the average SES Band 1 salary across most APS agencies falls between:

• $211,000 – $243,000 per year, including superannuation.

However, this can vary based on the agency and job location. For instance:

• Australian Taxation Office (ATO): Average Band 1 salary is around $220,000

• Department of Home Affairs: May offer up to $240,000 for critical roles

Key Benefits for Band 1 Employees

In addition to base pay, SES Band 1 employees may receive:

• Employer super contributions (up to 15.4%)

• Performance bonuses (typically up to 15% of base salary)

• Executive vehicle or vehicle allowance

• Relocation assistance (if recruited externally)

• Additional annual leave days

The combination of high pay, robust benefits, and national influence makes Band 1 roles highly competitive.

SES Band 2 Salary Structure in the APS (2025)

What SES Band 2 Leaders Do

SES Band 2 positions are much more strategic. Typical job titles include:

• First Assistant Secretary

• Chief Operating Officer (COO)

• Chief Legal Counsel

• Heads of major divisions or multi-agency programs

These executives influence cross-departmental policies and may oversee entire branches within a department.

2025 Salary Range for SES Band 2

In 2025, SES Band 2 roles command a salary range between:

• $264,000 – $305,000 per year, including superannuation.

Examples:

• Department of Finance: Band 2 salary is often around $280,000 – $295,000

• Prime Minister & Cabinet: Top-end Band 2 roles may reach $305,000

Extra Perks for SES Band 2

In addition to superannuation and base salary, benefits include:

• Short-term incentive payments

• Executive training budgets

• Full relocation and housing allowance (if required)

• Leadership development pathways

• Direct advisory access to senior ministers

Because Band 2 officers serve as a bridge between operational teams and high-level APS leadership, they are central to national decision-making processes.

SES Band 3 Salary Structure in the APS (2025)

The Top Tier of APS Leadership

SES Band 3 positions are the pinnacle of public service careers. These roles include:

• Deputy Secretaries

• Chief Executive Officers of large agencies

• Statutory officeholders

They report directly to Secretaries or Ministers and are responsible for entire government portfolios.

2025 SES Band 3 Salary Range

The 2025 SES Band 3 remuneration range is:

• $345,000 – $455,000 per year, including super.

However, certain appointments governed by the Remuneration Tribunal can push the salary higher. For instance:

• Deputy Secretary, Department of Defence: Estimated salary of $430,000+

• CEO of Services Australia: May reach $455,000 or more, depending on responsibilities

Exclusive Benefits for Band 3 Leaders

• Chauffeur-driven vehicle or transport allowance

• High-level security clearances

• Executive health and wellness programs

• Global travel for official engagements

• Full discretion on team structuring and high-impact decision-making

Because of the intense responsibility and visibility, Band 3 roles are subject to regular performance reviews and political scrutiny.

Real-World Examples of SES Pay Across Agencies

Here’s a breakdown of some key SES salaries across Australian government agencies in 2025:

• ATO Assistant Commissioner (Band 1) – $223,000

• Finance First Assistant Secretary (Band 2) – $290,000

• Home Affairs Deputy Secretary (Band 3) – $435,000

• DFAT Chief Legal Officer (Band 2) – $300,000

• Services Australia Regional Director (Band 1) – $216,000

These figures illustrate how flexible and performance-based SES salaries can be, even within the same band.

Summary Table: APS SES Band 1–3 Salary Comparison in 2025

How to Enter or Transition into SES Roles

Thinking of moving into the SES? Here are the steps:

1. Build experience at EL2 level – EL2 roles serve as a pipeline for SES appointments.

2. Apply through APSJobs or direct recruitment – Most SES roles are openly advertised.

3. Demonstrate leadership capabilities – Use the APS Integrated Leadership System (ILS) for guidance.

4. Prepare for intense interviews and vetting – Expect psychometric tests, panel interviews, and security checks.

5. Negotiate your package – SES packages are negotiable within approved limits.

Joining the SES requires more than credentials — you must show policy foresight, people leadership, and resilience.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Who sets SES salaries in the Australian Public Service?

SES salaries are set by individual agencies within ranges approved by the Australian Public Service Commission (APSC) and Remuneration Tribunal guidelines.

2. Are SES roles political appointments?

No. SES roles are merit-based and non-political. However, they often work closely with political leaders.

3. How long does it take to move from EL2 to SES Band 1?

It depends on performance and vacancies. On average, 2–5 years at EL2 with leadership experience may be enough.

4. Do SES roles come with bonuses?

Yes, SES employees may receive performance bonuses, usually capped at 15–20% of base pay.

5. Is there a probation period for SES roles?

Yes, new SES hires often undergo a 6–12 month probation period.

6. Can I apply for an SES role from outside the public service?

Yes, external candidates are encouraged, especially those from academia, business, or non-profits.

7. What’s the difference between Band 3 and Secretary level?

Band 3 is the highest SES band. Secretaries of departments are typically outside the SES classification and appointed under separate terms.

Final Thoughts

The SES Band 1, Band 2, and Band 3 salary structure in the Australian Public Service (2025) reflects a complex yet rewarding system designed to attract top talent and retain national leaders. Whether you're considering a move into executive public service, preparing for promotion, or benchmarking APS salaries, understanding these pay levels helps you plan and negotiate effectively.

These roles come with serious responsibility — but also unmatched influence and rewards. If you’re aiming high in the APS, the SES ladder offers one of the most impactful careers in the country.