Australia’s tech industry is growing faster than ever, and software engineer jobs in Australia are at the center of this boom in 2026. From startups to global tech giants, companies are actively hiring skilled professionals to support digital transformation, cloud adoption, AI development, and cybersecurity needs.
With a strong demand-supply gap, competitive salaries, and multiple PR and visa pathways, Australia has become one of the top destinations for software engineers worldwide. In this blog, we explore why software jobs in Australia are booming, the most in-demand specialisations, top cities for tech careers, salaries, visa options, and how overseas professionals can successfully build a future in Australia.
Table Of Content
1Are Software Engineers in Demand in Australia?2In-Demand Software Engineering Specialisations in Australia3Best Cities for Software Engineer Jobs in Australia4How to Get Software Engineer Jobs in Australia as a Foreigner5How to Migrate to Australia as a Software Engineer6Software Engineer Skills Assessment for Australia (ACS Explained)7Software Engineer Salary in Australia (2026)8Software Engineer Jobs in Australia with Visa Sponsorship9Take the Next Step in Your Software Engineering Career in Australia10Frequently Asked Questions
Are Software Engineers in Demand in Australia?
Yes. Software engineers remain on Australia’s Medium and Long-term Strategic Skills List (MLTSSL) due to:
- Rapid adoption of cloud, AI, and automation
- Growth in fintech, healthtech, edtech, and govtech
- Ongoing shortage of local tech talent
This sustained demand makes software jobs in Australia attractive for both local and overseas professionals.
In-Demand Software Engineering Specialisations in Australia
Employers in Australia are actively hiring engineers with expertise in:
Software Developers / Engineers (Java, Python, .NET):
In demand for building, maintaining, and upgrading enterprise applications across IT, finance, and government sectors.
Full-Stack Developers (React, Node.js, Angular):
Needed to handle both front-end and back-end development, especially for startups, SaaS companies, and digital platforms.
Cloud Engineers (AWS, Azure, GCP):
Highly sought after to manage cloud infrastructure, migrations, and scalable systems as Australian businesses move to the cloud.
AI & Machine Learning Engineers:
Required for automation, predictive analytics, and intelligent systems in healthcare, fintech, and research-driven industries.
Data Engineers & Data Scientists:
Essential for handling large datasets, building data pipelines, and generating insights to support business decisions.
Cyber Security Engineers:
In demand to protect systems, networks, and sensitive data due to rising cyber threats and strict compliance requirements.
DevOps Engineers:
Needed to streamline development and deployment processes, ensuring faster releases and system reliability.
Niche skills combined with relevant experience significantly improve job and visa prospects.
Best Cities for Software Engineer Jobs in Australia
Top tech hubs offering strong opportunities for Software engineer jobs in Australia include:
Sydney, NSW – Australia’s largest tech market, often called “Silicon Harbour.” Known for the highest salaries and strong demand in FinTech, AI, cloud computing, and enterprise software.
Melbourne, VIC – Home to a thriving startup ecosystem and global tech firms like IBM and Microsoft. Strong demand in HealthTech, gaming, SaaS, and known for excellent work-life balance and culture.
Brisbane, QLD – A rapidly growing tech hub with increasing opportunities in AI and CleanTech. Offers competitive salaries with a lower cost of living compared to Sydney and Melbourne.
Perth, WA – Ideal for software engineers working in mining technology, automation, and engineering software, supported by Australia’s strong resources sector.
Adelaide, SA – Emerging as a key destination for defence technology, cyber security, and innovation parks, with added benefits through state nomination pathways.
Canberra, ACT – Primarily government-driven tech roles, with growing demand in cyber security, AI, and big data, especially for professionals with security clearance or public-sector experience.
How to Get Software Engineer Jobs in Australia as a Foreigner
To get software engineer jobs in Australia as a Foreign professional you can improve your chances by:
- Getting an ACS skills assessment
- Targeting roles aligned with MLTSSL occupations
- Applying via LinkedIn, Seek, Indeed, and employer career pages
- Tailoring CVs to Australian standards
- Focusing on employers offering visa sponsorship
How to Migrate to Australia as a Software Engineer
Common migration pathways include:
- Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189)
- Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190)
- Skilled Work Regional Visa (Subclass 491)
- Employer Sponsored Visas (Subclass 482 / 186)
PR-focused visas usually require points-based eligibility and skills assessment.
Software Engineer Skills Assessment for Australia (ACS Explained)
The Australian Computer Society (ACS) is the official authority that conducts skills assessments for software engineers migrating to Australia. This assessment verifies whether your qualifications and work experience meet Australian standards, which is mandatory for most skilled migration visas.
For software engineers applying under ANZSCO 261313 (Software Engineer) an occupation listed on Australia’s skilled occupation lists ACS assessment is a crucial eligibility step.
ACS Assessment Pathways
ACS offers multiple assessment pathways based on your education and professional background:
General Skills Pathway
Suitable for applicants with ICT-related qualifications. Requires a comparable Bachelor’s degree and 2–8 years of relevant work experience, depending on ICT content and relevance to the nominated occupation.
Post-Australian Study Skills Pathway
Designed for Australian ICT graduates holding a Subclass 485 (Temporary Graduate) visa. Requires at least 2 years of relevant work experience after qualification.
Temporary Graduate Pathway
For recent Australian ICT Bachelor’s degree holders. Allows minimal work experience if the qualification was completed in Australia.
Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) Pathway
For applicants without formal ICT qualifications. Requires submission of two detailed project reports and 6–8 years of relevant software engineering experience.
Requirements for Software Engineers
To complete the ACS assessment, applicants must submit:
- Attested academic transcripts and certificates
- Updated resume
- Detailed employment reference letters
- Job duties aligned with ANZSCO 261313 and SFIA Level 4 or above
- Proof of English language proficiency (if required)
Work experience must clearly demonstrate software engineering tasks such as system design, coding, testing, debugging, and deployment. Non-relevant experience may be excluded by ACS assessors. To know more about ACS skill assessment you can refer to our blog “What is ACS Skill Assessment? A Complete Guide for IT and ICT Professionals”
Software Engineer Salary in Australia (2026)
The average salary for software engineer jobs in Australia ranges between AUD 110,000 and AUD 150,000 per year, with median total compensation reaching around AUD 147,000, including bonuses, superannuation, and stock options.
Entry-level software engineers typically start at AUD 80,000–95,000, while experienced professionals in senior or specialist roles can earn AUD 170,000–200,000+, depending on skills, location, and employer.
The average annual salary city-wise is given:
| City | Average Annual Salary (AUD) |
|---|---|
| Sydney | 108,000 – 170,000 |
| Melbourne | 97,000 – 150,000 |
| Brisbane | 90,000 – 135,000 |
| Perth | 91,000 – 125,000 |
| Adelaide | 91,000 – 125,000 |
Annual salary based on job level is given:
| Level | Average Annual Salary (AUD) |
|---|---|
| Entry-Level | 80,000 – 95,000 |
| Junior (0–3 yrs) | 78,000 – 105,000 |
| Mid-Level (3–5 yrs) | 105,000 – 140,000 |
| Senior | 160,000 – 200,000+ |
| Median Total Pay | ~147,000 (incl. bonus & stock) |
Note: Salaries vary based on experience, city, employer, and in-demand skills like AI, cloud, and DevOps. Total compensation may include bonuses, equity, and 11% superannuation.
Software Engineer Jobs in Australia with Visa Sponsorship
Australia offers numerous software engineer jobs with visa sponsorship, mainly through the Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) Subclass 482 visa. In 2026, over 1,800 developer roles are listed on Indeed and 600+ on LinkedIn, targeting skilled foreign professionals.
The highest concentration of opportunities is in Sydney and Melbourne, with sponsors like FinXL, Capgemini, and other tech firms seeking experts in AI, cloud computing, and full-stack development.
Key Job Platforms
Search using “visa sponsorship software engineer” on these sites:
- Indeed / Seek – 1,859+ visa-sponsored software developer roles, including senior positions in Dynamics AX/D365.
- LinkedIn – 687 sponsorship-based jobs, many in Sydney and Melbourne for full-stack and Node.js roles.
- Jooble – Contract and permanent software engineer listings in Sydney with sponsorship options.
Sponsorship Process
1. Secure a job offer from an approved Australian sponsor.
2. Apply for the TSS 482 visa (valid up to 4 years; PR pathway via Subclass 186).
3. Requirements usually include:
- ACS skills assessment
- Relevant work experience (5+ years preferred)
- English proficiency test
4. Sponsors may provide relocation support for high-demand roles.
Take the Next Step in Your Software Engineering Career in Australia
Australia is indeed a top destination for software engineers in 2026, offering high-demand roles, competitive salaries, and visa sponsorship opportunities. From Sydney’s booming FinTech scene to Melbourne’s vibrant startup ecosystem, there’s no shortage of career growth for skilled professionals. Whether you are a fresher or an experienced developer, understanding salary trends, visa pathways, and ACS requirements is key to successfully landing a role.
You’re still here, so we know you’re serious about your Australian immigration journey! CanApprove’s expert consultants can guide you through every step, from skills assessment and visa selection to relocation. Start your Australian tech journey today and secure the career and lifestyle you deserve.
Contact CanApprove now and take the first step toward your Australian software engineering career!
