APS 1 Salary
The complete guide to the APS Level 1 pay scale, base salary ranges, take-home calculations, entry-level duties, and career pathways.
APS 1 Base (Min)
$49,592
APS 1 Base (Max)
$54,981
Est. Fortnightly Net
$1,699
On Midpoint
Employer Super
15.4%
Paid on top
Total Package (Mid)
$60,339
Introduction
The APS Level 1 (APS 1) classification represents the foundation tier of the APS classification system. As the entry-level benchmark, this classification is specifically designed for individuals entering the professional workforce, transitioning from other sectors, or looking to gain initial administrative and operational experience in the public sector.
An APS 1 officer typically works under direct supervision and close guidance, undertaking routine tasks that follow clearly defined procedures. This classification is highly suitable for school leavers, university students seeking part-time or casual employment, and career changers looking for a secure pathway into the Australian Government.
Because the public service is renowned for its structured pay scales and generous employment conditions, understanding the financial rewards at the entry-level is crucial. The “APS 1 salary” offers a competitive starting wage that, when combined with a highly generous superannuation rate and strong job security, forms an attractive launchpad for a long-term career. This comprehensive guide outlines the APS 1 pay scale, day-to-day duties, required skills, and how to progress your career to higher classifications.
APS 1 Salary Range
For the current financial year, the base salary range for an APS 1 employee spans from a minimum of $49,592 to a maximum of $54,981.
These figures represent the annual base salary before statutory deductions, including Pay As You Go (PAYG) income tax and the Medicare levy. In the Australian Public Service, base salary figures are exclusive of the employer superannuation contribution.
Remuneration Breakdown (Based on Midpoint of $52,287)
- Annual Base Salary: $52,287
- Employer Superannuation (15.4%): $8,052 per year (paid directly into your super fund, not deducted from base)
- Total Remuneration Package: $60,339
- Estimated Net Take-Home (Annual): $44,179 (assuming resident tax rates, standard Medicare levy, and no HECS debt)
- Fortnightly Take-Home: $1,699
* To estimate your personalized net salary including HECS debt, tax offsets, or salary packaging, try the APS Salary Calculator.
The exact salary points within the APS 1 classification depend on the specific Enterprise Agreement (EA) negotiated by your employing government department. Large departments, such as the Department of Defence, Services Australia, and the Australian Taxation Office (ATO), establish individual salary bands that align with their operational needs. While minor variations exist between departments, the figures presented here represent a reliable average across the federal government.
What is APS 1?
The APS 1 classification is the introductory level of the Australian Public Service. It represents administrative, operational, and customer support roles that require no prior specialized experience. The primary focus of an APS 1 role is to build foundational workplace skills under close supervision while contributing to the daily operations of a government agency.
Common employers of APS 1 staff are large federal agencies with high-volume operational demands. For example, Services Australia regularly hires entry-level staff to assist with basic customer service and document handling, while the ATO utilizes APS 1 officers for seasonal data entry and records processing. Other employers include the Department of Defence, the Department of Home Affairs, and the National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA).
Because the work is highly structured, APS 1 roles are an excellent way to learn how the machinery of government operates. Employees are introduced to public sector standards, privacy legislation (such as handling personal information), and government communication protocols, preparing them for more complex responsibilities.
APS 1 Responsibilities
An APS 1 officer is responsible for executing routine, well-defined tasks under the direct guidance of a team leader or senior colleague. Common responsibilities at this level include:
- Administrative Support: Performing standard office duties such as scanning, printing, photocopying, booking meeting rooms, and preparing basic correspondence.
- Data Entry: inputting client, financial, or operational data into internal government databases with a high degree of accuracy.
- Document Handling: Sorting, registering, and archiving physical and digital files in accordance with records management policies.
- Customer Service: Answering general inquiries, directing clients to appropriate services or resources, and greeting visitors at agency reception desks.
- Mail and Records Management: Processing incoming and outgoing physical mail, distributing correspondence to relevant teams, and maintaining file tracking systems.
- Following Procedures: Strictly adhering to established operational guidelines, privacy protocols, and occupational health and safety standards.
- Assisting Senior Staff: Supporting higher-level officers (such as APS 4 or APS 5 team leaders) with administrative logistics for projects or programs.
APS 1 Skills
Although prior public service experience is not required, applicants must demonstrate key foundational skills to succeed in an APS 1 role:
- Communication: The ability to speak clearly with colleagues and clients, and to write basic emails or notes using clear and professional language.
- Basic Computer Skills: Proficiency in standard office software, including email, word processing, spreadsheets, and database entry tools.
- Organisation: Keeping track of daily tasks, maintaining a clean workspace, and ensuring paperwork is processed in a timely manner.
- Teamwork: Collaborating constructively with colleagues, supporting team objectives, and respecting diverse backgrounds.
- Attention to Detail: Ensuring data is entered correctly and documents are formatted according to agency guidelines without errors.
- Time Management: Completing routine tasks within designated timeframes and notifying supervisors of workload bottlenecks.
- Customer Service: Demonstrating patience, politeness, and a helpful attitude when interacting with members of the public or internal stakeholders.
APS 1 Qualifications
One of the most appealing aspects of the APS 1 classification is its accessibility. Key qualification requirements include:
- No Mandatory Degree: A university degree or prior technical qualification is not required for the vast majority of APS 1 positions.
- On-the-Job Training: Employing agencies provide comprehensive training programs covering internal IT systems, legislation, and operational procedures.
- Desirable Experience: Prior experience in retail, hospitality, customer service, or basic office administration is highly valued and helps candidates stand out.
- Security Clearance: Depending on the agency (particularly Defence or Home Affairs), employees must be Australian citizens and undergo a background check to obtain a Baseline security clearance.
APS 1 Salary Progression
Salary growth within the APS 1 level occurs through two primary mechanisms:
- Within-Band Increments: The APS 1 classification contains multiple internal pay points. Subject to meeting satisfactory performance benchmarks during annual reviews, employees advance one increment step (e.g., from step 1 to step 2) on 1 July each year until they reach the top of the band.
- Enterprise Agreement Pay Increases: Annual salary adjustments (typically between 3% and 4%) are applied to all pay scales in accordance with negotiated agency Enterprise Agreements to offset changes in the cost of living.
- Promotion to APS 2: To move into the higher salary band of the APS 2 Salary Guide classification, employees must apply for vacant positions through a competitive, merit-based selection process.
APS 1 vs APS 2
Transitioning from an APS 1 to an APS 2 role involves taking on a higher workload, greater complexity, and increased independence:
| Feature | APS 1 | APS 2 |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Salary | $49,592 – $54,981 | $57,430 – $63,980 |
| Responsibilities | Basic administrative tasks, data entry, record keeping, and general office support. | Customer service support, processing claims, complex data entries, and basic external client contact. |
| Independence | Works under direct supervision; receives detailed task instructions. | Works under moderate supervision; exercises limited independent judgment in routine matters. |
| Experience Required | Entry-level; no prior office experience required. | Basic office experience or transferable customer service/administrative skills preferred. |
| Career Level | Foundation tier; introduction to the public service. | Operational support tier; developing subject matter knowledge. |
Benefits
Working in the Australian Public Service provides exceptional employment conditions that match or exceed private sector standards:
- 15.4% Superannuation: A generous employer superannuation contribution paid directly into your fund, calculated on top of your base salary.
- Leave Entitlements: Generous leave packages, including 4 weeks of paid annual leave, 15 to 18 days of paid personal/carer’s leave, and paid public holidays.
- Flexible Working Arrangements: Access to hybrid work options (work-from-home), part-time agreements, and flexible hours where operationally viable.
- Learning & Development: Fully funded training courses, career mentoring programs, and study assistance (including paid study leave and financial support).
Career Progression
The APS supports clear and structured career progression pathways. Employees are encouraged to build skills and apply for promotion across the following tiers:
To advance through these levels, employees do not need to wait for a specific tenure. Instead, progression is based on merit. Once you have developed the necessary skills and experience at the APS 1 level, you can apply for vacant roles at the APS 2 or APS 3 level by participating in competitive recruitment campaigns.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the APS 1 salary?
The base salary range for an APS 1 officer typically ranges from $49,592 to $54,981 per year, depending on the agency Enterprise Agreement. Employer superannuation (15.4%) is paid additionally on top of this amount.
Is APS 1 an entry-level job?
Yes. The APS 1 classification is the introductory level within the federal public service, designed specifically for individuals with limited or no prior office experience.
Do I need a degree for APS 1?
No, you do not need a university degree. Recruitment processes assess core capabilities like communication, teamwork, computer literacy, and organizational ability rather than formal qualifications.
Can I move from APS 1 to APS 2?
Yes. Employees can progress by applying for vacant APS 2 roles through a competitive merit-based selection process. Gaining six to twelve months of experience as an APS 1 provides an excellent foundation for promotion.
Which agencies recruit APS 1 employees?
The largest employers of APS 1 staff are departments with high-volume public administration requirements, such as Services Australia (Centrelink/Medicare), the Australian Taxation Office (ATO), and the Department of Defence.
Does APS 1 receive superannuation?
Yes. All APS employees, including those at the APS 1 level, receive a 15.4% employer superannuation contribution paid on top of their base salary.
Related Pages
Calculate your exact APS 1 take-home pay
Use the calculator to estimate your fortnightly take-home pay, HECS/HELP debt repayments, and superannuation contributions as an APS 1 employee.
Open APS Salary Calculator →Data sourced from APSC Remuneration Report. Last verified 1 July 2026.