Free Calculator for Australian Freelancers
Are you undercharging?
Most freelancers set their rate based on gut feel. This calculator works backwards from what you actually want to earn, and shows you what you really need to charge.
Calculate your rateThe gap between salary and freelance rate
Tax + Medicare + Super
35-45%
Of gross income goes to obligations
Non-billable time
30-40%
Of your week is admin, not client work
Business expenses
$10-20k
Insurance, software, accounting, etc.
That's why a $75k salary doesn't mean a $75k freelance income. To take home the same amount, you need to charge significantly more per hour than most people expect.
Calculate your freelance rate
Work backwards from your desired take-home pay
What you want in your pocket after everything
Not all working hours are billable. learn why
This calculator provides general information only and is not financial advice.
Common questions
How is my rate calculated?
The calculator works backwards from your desired take-home pay. It adds income tax, Medicare levy, super contributions, and business expenses to find the gross revenue you need, then divides by your billable hours to get your hourly rate. This means the rate accounts for everything, not just tax.
Why is my rate so much higher than I expected?
Most people compare freelance rates to employee salaries, but employees get super, paid leave, insurance, and equipment provided by their employer. As a freelancer, you pay for all of that yourself. A $130/hour freelance rate often costs a business less than a $100k employee once you factor in all employer costs.
Should I charge GST on top of my rate?
If your annual turnover exceeds $75,000, you must register for GST and charge an extra 10% on your invoices. This GST isn't your income. You collect it and remit it to the ATO. The calculator shows both ex-GST and inc-GST rates so you know what to quote.
What are "billable hours" and why only 25 per week?
Billable hours are the hours you can actually charge a client for. The rest of your working week goes to finding clients, admin, invoicing, marketing, and professional development. Most established freelancers bill around 60–70% of their working hours. At 40 hours per week, that's roughly 25 billable hours.
Is this financial advice?
No. This calculator provides general information to help you understand freelance pricing. For advice specific to your situation, talk to a qualified accountant or financial adviser.
Ready to go deeper?
The complete guide covers pricing strategy, tax deductions, super contributions, contracts, BAS, and everything else Australian freelancers need to get right.
13 chapters · 150+ pages · 30-day guarantee
The information on this page is general in nature and does not constitute financial, tax, or legal advice. The calculator uses 2025-26 Australian tax brackets and the 2025-26 super guarantee rate. Actual results will vary based on your specific circumstances. Always consider your personal situation before making financial decisions.