Know your number first
Negotiation without data is just a feeling versus a budget — and the budget usually wins. Before any conversation, find your market position: where your pay sits against comparable roles in your city. SalariQ's free salary check shows your percentile in 60 seconds, so you know whether there's room to ask and how much.
When to negotiate
- At offer stage — the single best moment. The employer has chosen you and switching candidates is costly. Counter before you accept.
- At a review — tie your ask to delivered results and current market rates.
- After a clear win — a shipped project, a new responsibility, covering a departed colleague.
Negotiate the whole package — but lead with base
Base salary compounds: every future percentage raise is calculated on it, and it's what most benchmarks measure. Once base is settled, negotiate the rest: superannuation above the statutory rate, bonus structure, additional leave, flexibility and work-from-home, professional development budget, and equity. In Australia, always reason in base + super so you're comparing like with like.
Anchor with a credible range
Don't name a single number — anchor with a range backed by data. A full SalariQ report gives you a floor, target and stretch figure plus the leverage points behind them, so your ask sounds researched, not greedy.
Use the right words
What you say matters as much as the number. SalariQ generates word-for-word scripts in three tones — measured, confident and professional — that you adapt and send. You'll also get an "if they say no" plan so a first no doesn't end the conversation.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Naming a number before you've seen the market data.
- Negotiating on emotion or personal need instead of market value.
- Accepting the first offer because you're grateful — counters are expected.
- Forgetting super, leave and bonus in the comparison.
Frequently asked questions
When should I negotiate salary in Australia?
The two natural moments are at offer stage (before you accept) and at a performance or salary review. After a clear win — a delivered project, a new responsibility — is also strong. Avoid asking during redundancies or right after poor company results.
Should I negotiate base or the whole package?
Lead with base salary — it compounds every future raise and is what most benchmarks measure. Then negotiate the package: superannuation above 11.5%, bonus, extra leave, flexibility, professional development and equity.
How much should I ask for?
Anchor with data, not a feeling. SalariQ gives you a counter-offer range — floor, target and stretch — grounded in real Australian pay data for your role and city, so your ask is credible and defensible.