How Much Do Concrete Pumpers Make in Australia? Pay Breakdown by State (2026)

Average pay by role (AUD/yr — low / avg / high):
| Role | Low | Avg | High |
|---|---|---|---|
| Labourer / Boomhand | $65k | $75k | $85k |
| Line pump operator | $90k | $100k | $110k |
| Boom pump operator | $110k | $125k | $140k+ |
| Owner-operator (1 line pump) | $80k | $140k | $200k+ |
| Owner-operator (boom pump) | $150k | $220k | $350k+ |

By state: NSW (Sydney boom strongest, EBA boom ops $130k+; regional line $90–105k) · VIC (steady, Melbourne boom $115–130k) · QLD (Brisbane/GC boom $120–140k, NQ FIFO higher) · WA (resources-cycle, FIFO $150k+ in boom times) · SA & TAS (smaller, $85–110k).

What moves the number: overtime (biggest factor), licence stack (HR + CPCCLBM3001 + Heights + Confined Spaces), reliability, EBA coverage (+15–25% vs residential), owner-operator margin. Owner-op math: new line pump ~$180k–280k, boom from ~$400k to $1.5M+; run rates $200–400/hr line, $400–900/hr boom — but maintenance, insurance, downtime eat margin. For newcomers: start $65k–80k for 1–2 yrs. "Earn it. Then ask for it. In that order."