Why salary transparency matters for job seekers in Australia

Would you apply for a role that didn’t list an advertised salary? For 96 per cent of Australians, upfront salary information is a key determiner in whether to apply for a new role.

Unclear or missing salary guidance is now the number one frustration among job seekers. This places it ahead of unrealistic job requirements or lengthy recruitment processes. Despite growing calls for transparency, around 65 per cent of employers still leave salary information out of their job advertisements.

This lack of openness makes it challenging for candidates to assess whether a position suits their experience and pay expectations. It can also create uncertainty about fairness and pay equity at work.

This is especially the case at a time when cost-of-living pressures are front of mind for many Australians. Job seekers increasingly want clarity and honesty from potential employers.  Salary transparency is now viewed as a key part of building that trust.

It’s no surprise then that 82 per cent of Australians believe salary disclosure should be mandatory in all job ads. In many countries, including the United States, this is already the case. Greater transparency doesn’t just save time for applicants and employers. It also helps create a more competitive, equitable job market.

So why do employers continue to withhold salary information — and what can job seekers do about it?

Why do employers do this?

There are several reasons employers don’t always disclose salaries in job ads. Contrary to popular opinion, it isn’t always because the role is low-paying. In some cases, employers are looking to cast the net wide in terms of candidates. They may have capacity to increase the offer for the right person. In some situations, they might even adjust the role’s responsibilities depending on skills and experience.

Some companies also have internal rules around pay disclosure. This could be because they have different employees performing the same role for different pay rates, or because pay structures are being reviewed. In other cases, businesses may prefer to discuss salary expectations later in the process to gauge a candidate’s suitability and interest before negotiating.

What can you do?

Experts say that when you see a job advertised, there is nothing stopping you from ringing the company and asking about pay as part of a wider conversation about the job opening. Some people may feel uncomfortable about asking a potential employer about money. However, it’s important to remember that remuneration is a major factor in most people’s motivation to take up a job. Asking early can demonstrate professionalism and a clear understanding of your own value.

There’s no point getting to the second or third interview stage and then realising a position doesn’t meet your pay requirements. By being upfront, you save time for both yourself and the employer — and can focus on roles that genuinely match your expectations.

The good news? Salary information is always listed in job ads for all public sector positions including those in the Australian Public Service.

With so much attention now on transparency, it’s more important than ever for job seekers to approach the recruitment process with confidence and clarity. Understanding how to communicate your value, ask the right questions, and present your skills effectively can make a real difference when pursuing new opportunities. It’s also one of the key advantages of careers in government — salary details are always clearly stated upfront. This openness helps applicants make informed decisions. It also highlights the public sector’s commitment to fairness and transparency in hiring.

Are you looking for a new career? Selection Criteria Writers can help. We are pleased to offer various services including interview skills coaching and career development coaching to help you stand out and succeed in a competitive job market.

Article References

Ahwan, L (20 June 2025) ‘Aussie workers demand mandatory salary transparency in job ads, new research shows’, Herald Sun, accessed 16 October 2025.