Head of Design Salary in Cairns, Queensland

Cairns includes tourism, hospitality, and public sector projects involving design leadership. Salaries in Cairns reflect local market conditions. Cairns has a moderate cost of living.

Salary by experience level

Entry-level (0-2 years)

Salary range (per year)

A$88,000 to A$110,000

Average (per year)

A$99,000

Entry-level salaries in Cairns are influenced by tourism and hospitality design needs.

Mid-level (3-5 years)

Salary range (per year)

A$111,000 to A$135,000

Average (per year)

A$123,000

Mid-level Heads of Design work with tourism operators, event agencies, and regional marketing firms.

Senior (6-9 years)

Salary range (per year)

A$136,000 to A$155,000

Average (per year)

A$145,000

Senior roles may oversee large-scale campaigns for hospitality chains or local councils.

Principal/Lead (10+ years)

Salary range (per year)

A$156,000+

Principal or Lead positions are found in tourism and infrastructure sectors.

Hourly Rates

For freelance or contract work, hourly rates are typically higher than equivalent salaried positions.

Junior

A$48 - A$70

per hour

Mid-level

A$71 - A$95

per hour

Senior

A$96 - A$120

per hour