Agent Tools

Commission Calculator

Calculate gross commission, GST breakdown, and agent/agency split on any property sale.

Sale details

$
0.5%1%2%3%4%5%

Total commission (inc. GST)

$23,375

Effective rate: 2.75% of sale price

Breakdown

Commission (2.5%)$21,250
GST (10%)$2,125
Total payable by vendor$23,375
Net commission (excl. GST)$21,250

Commission rates are negotiable and vary by state. This calculator is for estimation only and does not constitute financial or legal advice.

How this calculator works

Australian real estate agents charge a commission as a percentage of the sale price. GST (10%) applies on top of — or within — the agreed rate depending on how the agency structures its fee. This calculator handles both: if "rate includes GST" is off, GST is added to your entered rate; if on, the GST component is extracted from the rate you entered.

The split feature lets you model how the gross commission is divided between an individual agent and their agency. Most Australian agencies operate on a split arrangement ranging from 50/50 for newer agents to 80/20 or higher for senior performers.

Worked example

Scenario: $1,200,000 sale, 2.2% commission (excl. GST), 70/30 agent/agency split

Commission (2.2% of $1,200,000)$26,400
GST (10%)$2,640
Total payable by vendor$29,040
Agent's share (70% of net)$18,480
Agency's share (30% of net)$7,920

Commission rates by state

Rates are negotiable in all states, but typical market ranges differ:

  • NSW & VIC: Typically 1.5%–2.5% (competitive metro markets drive rates lower)
  • QLD: Typically 2%–3% (capped at no set legal maximum, but consumer protections apply)
  • SA: Typical range 1.5%–2.5%
  • WA: Typical range 2.5%–3% for residential property
  • Off-the-plan project sales: Commission structures often differ — flat fees or tiered rates are common for developers selling multiple lots.

Frequently asked questions

Is commission negotiable?

Yes. Commission rates are not regulated in Australia (except in some territories with historical caps). Agents and vendors agree on the rate before signing an agency agreement. In competitive markets and for high-value properties, rates are often negotiated lower.

Does the vendor or buyer pay commission?

In Australia, commission is paid by the vendor (seller) at settlement, deducted from the proceeds of sale. Buyers do not pay agent commission — this differs from some overseas markets.

What is a typical agent/agency split?

New agents commonly start at 50/50 or 60/40 in their favour. Experienced agents with strong performance records often negotiate 70/30, 80/20, or even higher retentions. Some senior agents operate as licensees and retain 100% of commission, paying a monthly desk fee instead.

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