Introduction

As awareness of mental health continues to grow across Australia, demand for qualified counselling professionals is on the rise. For students studying counselling and those planning to enter the mental health workforce, staying informed about job market trends and salary expectations is essential. This blog gives you an up‑to‑date picture of employment opportunities, salary ranges, and sector developments heading into 2026 — helping you plan your studies and career path with confidence.

1. Growing Demand for Counsellors (2021–2026)

According to national industry forecasts, the number of counselling professionals in Australia is expected to grow steadily over the coming years. From November 2021 to November 2026, the workforce is projected to increase significantly — from around 24,400 to approximately 27,800 counsellors. This growth reflects broader societal shifts toward recognising and supporting mental wellbeing.

Open Universities data also notes that counselling roles are expected to grow about 14.2% over the next five years, highlighting ongoing demand for trained professionals who can support individuals through life challenges, trauma, addiction, and mental health concerns.

2. Where Counsellors Are Needed Most

Counsellors work in a wide variety of employment environments, each with unique opportunities:

• Community health and social services: Providing support across age groups and social contexts.
   
• Schools and universities: Assisting students with emotional wellbeing, academic stress, and transitions.
   
• Private practice: Offering flexible hours and the potential for higher income as experience grows.
   
• Workplaces and Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs): Supporting employee stress, work‑life balance, and conflict resolution.
   
• Telehealth and online services: Expanding opportunities for remote counselling roles.
   

Job boards and recent listings confirm that counselling and mental health roles are actively advertised across both metropolitan and regional Australia, demonstrating continued need for qualified practitioners.

3. Salary Expectations for Counsellors in Australia

Salary ranges in the counselling sector vary significantly depending on factors like role type, location, experience level, and whether work is in private practice or salaried employment.

Average Salary Estimates

• Broad industry averages: Many sources cite an average annual salary in the range of approximately AU$90,000–$105,000 for qualified counsellors, with hourly rates commonly around $45–$50.
   
• Jora data: Reports an average of about $102,499 per year for mental health counsellor roles in Australia.
   
• SEEK job listings: Some full‑time roles are advertised between roughly $77,000–$128,000+ per year depending on function, location, and responsibilities (including superannuation).
   
• Glassdoor figures: Typical ranges can vary from AU$70,000 up to AU$100,500+ annually, with top earners exceeding that.

It’s worth noting that counselling salaries can differ by specialisation (e.g., crisis work, youth counselling, family support) and employer type. Government roles or specialised programs may offer structured pay scales, while private practice income can fluctuate based on client base, experience, and business model.

4. What Influences Counsellor Salaries

Several key factors shape salary expectations in the counselling field:

Location

Salaries can vary based on geography. Regional and remote positions sometimes offer higher pay to attract qualified professionals in areas with fewer practitioners.

Experience and Qualifications

• Entry‑level counsellors may start in the $70,000–$85,000 range, depending on the role.
   
• With experience and advanced qualifications (e.g., Master’s degrees or clinical specialisations), salaries commonly move above $90,000 annually.

Postgraduate studies and professional accreditation can help raise earning potential and open more specialised roles.

Specialisation

Certain counselling niches — such as substance abuse, trauma, or family therapy — may command higher pay or specialist roles with premium earnings.

Employer Type

• Public and community sectors typically offer structured salaries with benefits.
   
• Private practice can offer higher hourly fees but requires business development, client acquisition, and self‑management.

5. Emerging Job Market Trends in 2026

Telehealth and Flexible Counselling Work

The increased uptake of telehealth counselling services — accelerated during and after the COVID‑19 pandemic — continues to shape job opportunities. Practitioners can work remotely, broaden their client base and enjoy flexible schedules without geographic constraints.

Specialisation Demand

Counsellors with skills in areas like trauma support, substance misuse, relationship counselling, and anxiety management are in particularly high demand. These specialisations not only align with community need but often command stronger career prospects.

Integration with Broader Mental Health Services

More counsellors are being employed within multidisciplinary teams that include psychologists, social workers, and mental health nurses — reflecting greater integration of services in community, healthcare, and educational settings.

What Students Should Know Before Graduating

As Australia approaches 2026, the counselling profession continues to grow as communities prioritise mental wellbeing and support services. Job opportunities are expanding, salaries remain competitive compared to many other health‑related professions, and specialisations offer pathways to meaningful and financially rewarding careers.

With a solid qualification, practical experience, and a focus on in‑demand skills, counselling graduates are well‑positioned to succeed in a dynamic job market that values empathy, communication, and evidence‑based practice.

Ready to Launch Your Counselling Career in Australia?

At StudyCounselling.com, we help you understand the latest job market trends, salary expectations, and career pathways tailored to counselling and mental health professions. Contact us today for personalised guidance on accredited courses, internships, and professional development so you can step confidently into your future as a counselling professional!