What are ordinary hours?
Ordinary hours are an employee's standard working hours, usually up to 38 a week, set by an award, agreement, or contract — distinct from overtime.
Ordinary hours are an employee's normal working hours, separate from any overtime. Under the National Employment Standards, the maximum ordinary hours for a full-time employee are 38 per week, plus reasonable additional hours.
Exactly how those ordinary hours are arranged — the days, start and finish times, and how they may be averaged — is set by the relevant Modern Award, enterprise agreement, or employment contract. Hours worked outside the agreed ordinary hours are usually paid as overtime or attract penalty rates.
Key facts
- •Maximum ordinary hours for full-time employees are 38 per week under the National Employment Standards
- •Daily and weekly arrangements are set by the award, agreement, or contract
- •Ordinary hours are distinct from overtime and additional hours
- •Penalty rates and overtime usually apply to hours worked outside ordinary hours
- •Awards often allow ordinary hours to be averaged over a set period
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Pay CalculatorFrequently asked questions
Can my ordinary hours be more than 38 a week?
Full-time ordinary hours are capped at 38 a week under the National Employment Standards, though awards can allow these to be averaged. Hours beyond your ordinary hours are generally overtime or reasonable additional hours.
Are ordinary hours the same as the hours I actually work?
Not always. Ordinary hours are your agreed standard hours. Any time worked outside them — such as overtime or call-backs — is treated separately and is often paid at a higher rate.
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