What is overtime?
Overtime is hours worked beyond an employee's ordinary hours, paid at penalty rates of 150% (time and a half) or 200% (double time) under most awards.
Overtime refers to hours worked beyond an employee's ordinary hours as defined by their award, enterprise agreement, or contract. Under most Modern Awards, full-time employees work 38 ordinary hours per week — any authorised hours beyond that are overtime. Part-time employees typically trigger overtime after their agreed hours or after 38 hours per week, depending on the award.
Overtime rates are set by the relevant award or EA. The most common rates are 150% (time and a half) for the first 2–3 hours and 200% (double time) after that. Some awards also pay double time for all overtime on Sundays or public holidays. An employer can require an employee to work reasonable overtime, but the employee can refuse if the request is unreasonable.
Key facts
- •Ordinary hours for full-time employees are 38 per week under the NES
- •Most awards pay 150% for the first 2–3 overtime hours and 200% thereafter
- •Overtime on Sundays and public holidays is often paid at 200% or higher
- •An employee can refuse unreasonable overtime — factors include health, family, notice given, and the employee's role
- •Some awards require minimum overtime engagements (e.g., at least 2 hours if called back)
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Pay CalculatorFrequently asked questions
Can my employer make me work overtime?
Your employer can request reasonable additional hours beyond 38 per week. Whether overtime is reasonable depends on factors like health and safety risks, your personal circumstances, notice provided, the nature of the role, and whether you are compensated for it.
Do casual employees get overtime?
Yes. Casuals can be entitled to overtime rates under their award, typically when they exceed 38 hours per week or work beyond a daily cap (often 8 or 10 hours in a shift).
General information and estimates only — not legal, financial, or tax advice. Always verify with the Fair Work Ombudsman (13 13 94) or a qualified professional.