Head of Design Salary in City of Sydney, New South Wales
City of Sydney is home to many tech and creative employers. High living costs and competition from global firms influence design leadership salaries.
Salary by experience level
Entry-level (0-2 years)
Salary range (per year)
A$120,000 to A$150,000
Average (per year)
A$134,000
Assist senior designers, coordinate visual assets, support design strategy, and oversee junior team tasks.
Mid-level (3-5 years)
Salary range (per year)
A$150,000 to A$180,000
Average (per year)
A$162,000
With a few years' experience, design leaders work for fintech firms, global consultancies, or major media companies.
Senior (6-9 years)
Salary range (per year)
A$180,000 to A$235,000
Average (per year)
A$202,000
Senior Heads of Design in the City of Sydney oversee large teams for ASX-listed companies or global tech players.
Principal/Lead (10+ years)
Salary range (per year)
A$235,000+
At principal level, salaries reflect executive roles in digital product companies and multinational agencies headquartered in Sydney.
Hourly Rates
For freelance or contract work, hourly rates are typically higher than equivalent salaried positions.
Junior
A$100 - A$140
per hour
Mid-level
A$140 - A$200
per hour
Senior
A$200 - A$310
per hour