Real Estate Agent Salary in Australia: How Much Do Agents Get Paid?

Real estate can be a lucrative career, but earnings vary widely based on experience, location, and commission structures. Having worked in sales for nearly two decades, I’ve seen firsthand how skill, strategy, and negotiation can make all the difference in an agent’s income. If you’re considering a career in real estate or simply curious about agent salaries, here’s what you need to know.

Average Salary of a Real Estate Agent in Australia

Real estate agents in Australia typically earn a combination of base salary and commission. According to industry reports, the average salary for a real estate agent ranges from $50,000 to $100,000 per year, depending on experience and market conditions.

However, commissions play a significant role in an agent’s income, with top-performing agents earning well above the average. I’ve personally closed deals where my commission alone far exceeded the typical annual salary of most Australians.

Real Estate Agent Commission: High vs. Low End

Commission rates in Australia generally range from 1.5% to 3.5% of the property’s sale price, but this can vary by state and agency.

High-End Commissions

Top-performing agents, especially in premium markets like Sydney and Melbourne, can command commissions of 2.5% to 3.5%. On a $2 million property, a 3% commission would equate to $60,000 in commission.

I remember a deal where I sold a luxury home in a high-demand area. Because of my negotiation skills, I not only secured a higher sale price for my client but also maximised my commission, taking home a significant payday. When you know how to sell a lifestyle, not just a house, you can command top dollar.

Low-End Commissions

In highly competitive or regional markets, commission rates can be as low as 1.5%. On a $500,000 property, that equates to $7,500 in commission a significant drop compared to higher-end deals.

Earlier in my career, I worked in markets where commission was on the lower end. To compensate, I focused on volume, closing multiple deals per month instead of relying on one big sale. I learned that consistency in sales, follow-ups, and smart negotiation can turn even low commissions into serious earnings.

Commission Structures: How Agencies Pay Agents

Real estate agencies offer different commission structures, impacting how much agents take home. The three most common structures are:

1. Salary + Commission

Many agencies pay a base salary (around $50,000–$80,000) plus a lower commission percentage (e.g., 30%–50% of the total commission earned per sale). This structure provides stability but limits earning potential.

2. Commission Split

Agents work on a split commission basis, typically taking home 40%–70% of the total commission, with the agency keeping the rest. For example, on a $20,000 commission, an agent earning 50% would take home $10,000.

I’ve worked under this structure, and I quickly realised that the key to success is learning how to close deals efficiently. I spent years refining my pitch, understanding buyer psychology, and leveraging tactical empathy to create urgency, ensuring that I was always closing.

3. 100% Commission (Self-Employed Agents)

Some agencies offer a 100% commission model, where agents keep the full commission but pay a desk fee, marketing costs, and other expenses. This can be highly lucrative for experienced agents who generate their own leads, as earnings are uncapped.

When I moved to a 100% commission model, I knew I had to back myself completely. There was no safety net, only my ability to close. By leveraging my network, running strategic marketing campaigns, and honing my negotiation skills, I was able to turn every listing into a high-value deal. For agents who trust their skills, this model offers the biggest rewards.

Is Real Estate a Good Career for Income Potential?

Real estate offers unlimited earning potential, but success depends on sales skills, networking, and market conditions. While some agents earn under $50,000, top agents in luxury markets can make over $1 million per year through high commissions.

I’ve personally seen both sides of the spectrum, agents who struggle to make ends meet and those who turn every opportunity into a goldmine. The difference? Those who invest in their sales skills, build strong relationships, and master negotiation always come out on top.

Final Thoughts

Real estate agent earnings vary widely, with commission structures playing a key role. Whether working on a base salary, split commission, or 100% commission model, agents who build strong client relationships and close more deals will always earn more.

If you're considering a career in real estate or looking to maximise your earnings, understanding commission structures is crucial. With nearly two decades in sales, I’ve learned that real estate success isn’t just about selling houses, it’s about selling trust, expertise, and a vision.