Question 1

How much tax will I pay on a $70,000 salary in Australia?

Accepted Answer

On a $70,000 salary claiming the tax-free threshold, you would pay approximately $12,788 in income tax plus $1,400 Medicare levy for the 2025-26 financial year, leaving a net take-home pay of around $55,812 per year or $4,651 per month. Your effective tax rate would be approximately 20.3%.

Question 2

Do international students pay tax in Australia?

Accepted Answer

Yes. International students who earn income in Australia are subject to Australian income tax. If you are an Australian resident for tax purposes (which most students on visas longer than six months are), you can claim the tax-free threshold of $18,200. You should apply for a Tax File Number (TFN) as soon as you arrive — without one, your employer must withhold tax at the highest marginal rate.

Question 3

What is the Medicare levy and do international students have to pay it?

Accepted Answer

The Medicare levy is an additional 2% tax on your taxable income that funds the public healthcare system. International students who hold Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) rather than Medicare may be exempt from the levy. You can claim an exemption by completing a Medicare Levy Exemption Certification form through Services Australia.

Question 4

Can I get my superannuation back when I leave Australia?

Accepted Answer

Yes. If you held a temporary visa (including a student visa) and have permanently departed Australia, you can claim your superannuation through the Departing Australia Superannuation Payment (DASP) scheme. The payment is taxed at 65% (or 35% for working holiday makers). You apply online via the ATO website after your visa has expired or been cancelled.

Question 5

What is the minimum wage in Australia for 2025?

Accepted Answer

The national minimum wage is $24.95 per hour (from 1 July 2025), which equates to $948.10 per week for a full-time 38-hour week. Casual employees receive an additional 25% loading, bringing the casual minimum to approximately $31.19 per hour. Some industries and roles have higher minimum rates set by Modern Awards.

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