I can certainly understand your position, pay is important, especially if you have massive student loan debt. You probably want to develop a budget and see how things may look in you future. here is the nitty gritty on pay from a DEO MARS with 2 years in (not the gospel as rates have likely changed but good enough for a rough budget plan)
Expect pay to be very confusing at basic - when I went through there was little understanding of how we were being paid. It all seemed very random and the pay seemed low. Best advice - take what they give you and wait until you get to Esquimalt. Then review your pay statements closely - take any questions to the Base Orderly Room in Esquimalt.
Generally, you will receive exactly what the pay chart indicates at the recruiting site. However it can be confusing at first glance. A quick look at the current rates shows that an Acting sub lieutenant in their first year of service (You after basic training) can expect $3687 per month gross, which is $1843.50 twice a month.
Deductions you can expect:
$25 for wardroom mess dues
$230 for quarters (if you choose to live on base)
$370 for rations (again for on base only)
Applicable taxes
CPP
SISSIP (Military) life insurance
Superanuation
EI
Taxable allowences will include "Post Living Differential" used to offset the high cost of life in Victoria - this amounts to roughly $460 before tax. There is also extra pay for time spent at sea. On MARS courses expect two weeks for the first course, two weeks for the second and six weeks for the third Pay is set at roughly 9.50/day. More a bonus to offset money spent on "social activity" while at sea.
Given all the above factors, as a very general idea, expect to make between $1400 and $1500 net pay, twice a month while training at Venture.
Hope this helps, and best of luck!!
Lofty
