How much do full time cleaners make in Australia?

 How Much Do Full-Time Cleaners Make in Australia?

Full-time cleaners in Australia can expect to earn between $55,000 and $70,000 annually, depending on their location, experience, and whether they're in domestic or commercial roles. In urban centres like Melbourne or Sydney, wages trend higher thanks to greater demand and living costs.

But let’s not sugar-coat it—cleaning isn’t a cakewalk. It’s labour-intensive, often thankless, yet absolutely vital. So, how does the pay stack up for those clocking in full-time? And is the gig worth the grind?

What’s the Average Full-Time Cleaner Salary in Australia?

According to current job boards and industry benchmarks, most full-time cleaning roles offer:

  • Hourly rate: $27–$35 per hour

  • Weekly earnings: $1,100–$1,400 (based on 38-hour work week)

  • Annual salary: Roughly $57,000–$68,000

These figures swing depending on award rates, employer type, union coverage, and job classification. Cleaners in government or hospital contracts may enjoy higher pay, while those in private homes or small businesses may earn closer to the minimum wage.

Fun fact: Casual cleaners often get paid more per hour to offset lack of leave entitlements—but over time, full-timers usually come out ahead.

Do Wages Differ Between Domestic and Commercial Cleaning?

Absolutely—and the gap can be surprisingly wide.

  • Domestic cleaners (home-based) usually earn less, typically around $27–$30/hr, with limited union coverage.

  • Commercial cleaners working in offices, retail sites, or industrial zones average $30–$35/hr. Those in specialty areas like medical cleaning may command even more.

For example, a commercial cleaner in Melbourne CBD working night shifts may earn a premium over a part-time housekeeper in suburban Geelong.

Which States Pay the Most for Cleaners?

Location makes a real difference in pay packets:

State/TerritoryAverage Hourly RateNotable Insights
NSW$29–$34Strong demand in Sydney metro
VIC$28–$33Higher in inner-Melbourne, especially in commercial zones
QLD$27–$32Big gap between city and regional rates
WA$30–$36Mining towns boost demand
SA$26–$30Slightly lower average due to cost of living
TAS$25–$28Fewer full-time roles, more casual gigs

It’s a good reminder: wages tend to reflect cost of living and demand. Perth and Melbourne, for instance, often pay top dollar in the cleaning sector.

Are There Career Paths or Upskilling Options?

You bet. Cleaning might seem linear, but there’s more progression than most realise:

  • Supervisory roles: Shift supervisors or site managers often earn $75,000–$90,000 annually

  • Specialist certifications: Training in biohazard, pressure washing, or carpet restoration can push hourly rates beyond $40

  • Franchise ownership: Some cleaners buy into branded networks like Jim’s Cleaning and build client bases earning six figures

One cleaner in Dandenong reportedly scaled from a casual gig to running a three-van operation in under two years. That’s consistency meeting opportunity.

What Other Perks or Challenges Should You Expect?

Perks:

  • Predictable hours (especially in full-time roles)

  • Independence and low-stress work environment

  • Potential for long-term stability

Challenges:

  • Physically demanding (especially in commercial setups)

  • Can involve late nights or early mornings

  • Limited prestige (let’s be honest—people don’t always appreciate it)

But the hidden upside? Cleaners often have insight into company culture, employee habits, and security blind spots. It’s quietly empowering.

Is Full-Time Cleaning Still in Demand?

Yes—more than ever. The pandemic permanently raised hygiene standards in workplaces, schools, and public venues. Businesses now treat cleaning not as a cost, but as an essential service.

This is especially visible in places like Melbourne’s corporate districts, where office cleaning demand has bounced back post-lockdown. Contracts are longer, expectations higher, and pay slowly rising in response.

Quick FAQs

Q: Do cleaners get superannuation and leave?
A: Yes, full-time roles typically include 10.5% super, sick leave, and annual leave entitlements.

Q: Can you earn more as a self-employed cleaner?
A: Possibly, but you’ll trade off stability for flexibility—and handle your own taxes and insurance.

Q: Is night shift cleaning paid more?
A: Generally yes, due to award penalties. Overnight office cleaning can earn 15–25% more.

Australia’s cleaning industry doesn’t often make headlines, but it's an economic linchpin. Whether you’re considering a move into the field or just curious about the going rates, the outlook is clear: demand is steady, wages are fair, and pathways exist for those willing to mop, scrub, and hustle.

Want to understand what impacts commercial cleaner wages the most? This overview of office cleaning in Melbourne breaks it down clearly.

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