Qantas, Australia’s flag carrier and largest airline, is renowned for its commitment to safety, service, and employee satisfaction. With a history spanning over a century, Qantas operates from major hubs such as Sydney, Brisbane, Melbourne, and Perth, and connects passengers to more than 100 destinations worldwide. The airline’s cabin crew play a pivotal role in maintaining its reputation for hospitality and safety, and in 2025, Qantas continues to offer competitive salaries and a comprehensive benefits package to attract and retain top talent.
Qantas Cabin Crew Salary and Benefits Overview
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Base Salary Range | AU$45,000 – AU$90,000 per year |
| Senior Roles (Purser/Lead) | Over AU$75,000 per year |
| Maximum Earnings | Over AU$100,000 per year (with experience and allowances) |
| Allowances | Meals, transportation, layovers |
| Staff Travel | Discounted tickets for crew, family, and friends |
| Corporate Discounts | Travel, hotels, fitness, insurance, etc. |
| Wellbeing Program | Mental health support, fitness, nutrition |
| Career Growth | Internal promotions, back-office opportunities |
| Requirements | Age 18+, customer service exp., physical, certs, health, work rights |
Salary Structure for Qantas Cabin Crew
Base Salary and Increments
Qantas offers some of the highest salaries in the aviation industry, reflecting its status as a leading full-service airline. In 2025, cabin crew members at Qantas can expect to earn between AU$45,000 and AU$90,000 per year, depending on factors such as the type of aircraft they work on, their level of experience, and seniority within the company. Recently, 750 crew members hired via labor hire companies have received annual increments of up to AU$20,000, further boosting their earnings.
Senior and Specialist Roles
Cabin leads, pursers, and those working exclusively in first and business class typically earn over AU$75,000 per year. These roles often require an average of 80 flying hours per month and come with additional responsibilities, such as leading the cabin team and ensuring premium service standards. With significant experience, some crew members can exceed AU$100,000 in total annual earnings, including allowances and other benefits.
Allowances and Additional Compensation
Per Diems and Layover Allowances
In addition to their base salary, Qantas cabin crew receive allowances for meals, transportation, and layovers. The amount varies depending on the destination and duration of layovers. These per diems are designed to cover the cost of living while crew members are away from their home base, ensuring they are compensated fairly for their time on the road.
Overtime and Holiday Pay
Crew members who work on government or public holidays are compensated accordingly, often receiving additional pay or time off in lieu. Qantas also offers flexible leave options, allowing employees to purchase additional holidays beyond their standard entitlement.
Benefits and Perks
Staff Travel Program
One of the most valued benefits for Qantas cabin crew is the staff travel scheme. Crew members, along with their families and friends, enjoy significantly discounted tickets on Qantas’ domestic and international network, as well as on codeshare and Oneworld partner airlines. This perk allows crew members to explore the world at a fraction of the usual cost.
Corporate Discounts
Through partnerships with leading travel brands, hotel chains, fitness centers, and insurance companies, Qantas offers its cabin crew access to corporate rates that are cheaper than market prices. These discounts extend to a wide range of products and services, further enhancing the overall value of employment with Qantas.
Wellbeing and Support Programs
Qantas is committed to the wellbeing of its employees. The airline provides a robust wellbeing program, including an exclusive app that offers mental health support, workout routines, and nutrition plans. This focus on health and wellness helps crew members maintain a healthy work-life balance and cope with the demands of their roles.
Diverse and Inclusive Workplace
Qantas fosters a diverse and inclusive working environment, encouraging employees from all backgrounds to thrive. Working with colleagues from around the world helps crew members develop vital skills and adapt to the dynamic nature of the travel industry.
Career Growth and Internal Promotions
Qantas frequently promotes from within, offering cabin crew opportunities to advance to senior positions or transition into corporate and back-office roles. This commitment to internal growth provides a clear career path for motivated employees.
Qualifications and Requirements
Essential Criteria
To become a Qantas cabin crew member, applicants must meet the following criteria:
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Age: 18 years or older
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Customer Service Experience: Recent experience in a customer-facing role
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Physical Requirements: Minimum reach of 212 cm from the ground (barefoot, both hands), and maximum height of 186 cm
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Certifications: Valid First Aid and CPR Certificate (or willingness to obtain), Responsible Service of Alcohol Certificate (or willingness to obtain)
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Health and Fitness: Excellent health and fitness, including the ability to swim and tread water unassisted
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Work Rights: Unlimited Australian working rights.
Core Responsibilities
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Demonstrate passion and pride in delivering exceptional customer service
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Anticipate customer needs and adhere to policies and procedures
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Offer a caring approach to nervous flyers and respect cultural and linguistic diversity
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Maintain personal grooming and cabin cleanliness
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Build rapport with team members and contribute positively to team performance.
The Hiring Process at Qantas
Application and Online Assessment
Qantas advertises cabin crew job openings on its careers portal. Interested candidates submit their resumes and supporting documents online. Shortlisted applicants are invited to complete an online assessment to evaluate their personality traits, core competencies, and linguistic skills.
In-Person Assessment
Candidates who pass the online test are invited to an in-person assessment. This stage includes a one-on-one interview, group activities, a written comprehension examination, and a check of physical attributes.
Pre-Employment Checks
Successful candidates move on to pre-employment checks, including background, criminal, and safety checks, as well as a medical examination.
Training Program
Those who pass all checks undergo an eight-week training program, where they are mentored to meet Qantas’ high standards. A final examination must be passed before an offer is made.
Job Offer
Candidates who clear all stages receive a job offer, with a start date and operating base agreed upon mutually.
FAQs
How much do Qantas cabin crew get paid?
Qantas cabin crew earn between AU$45,000 and AU$90,000 per year, with senior roles and experienced crew able to exceed AU$100,000 including allowances.
What benefits do Qantas cabin crew receive?
Benefits include staff travel, corporate discounts, flexible leave, wellbeing programs, and opportunities for internal promotion.
What are the requirements to join Qantas as cabin crew?
Applicants must be at least 18, have customer service experience, meet physical and health requirements, hold relevant certificates, and have unlimited Australian working rights.
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