What is a shift loading?
A shift loading is an extra percentage added to the base rate for working outside standard daytime hours, such as evening, night, or early morning shifts.
A shift loading is an additional payment — expressed as a percentage of the base rate — paid to employees who work shifts outside standard daytime hours. Loadings compensate for the disruption of working unsociable hours. The exact rates vary by award but commonly apply to afternoon shifts, night shifts, and early morning shifts.
Shift loadings are separate from penalty rates for weekends and public holidays. An employee might receive a shift loading on top of a weekend penalty rate. Under most awards, shift loadings are included in ordinary time earnings (OTE) for super purposes because they relate to ordinary hours of work.
Key facts
- •Common loadings: 10–15% for afternoon shifts, 15–30% for night shifts, depending on the award
- •Applied as a percentage on top of the base hourly rate
- •Separate from weekend and public holiday penalty rates
- •Included in ordinary time earnings (OTE) for superannuation calculation
- •Standard hours defining 'day shift' are typically 6:00am–6:00pm, but vary by award
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Pay CalculatorFrequently asked questions
Do I get a shift loading on top of weekend penalty rates?
It depends on your award. Some awards provide both a shift loading and a weekend penalty rate, while others have an all-inclusive weekend rate. Check the specific penalty and shift loading clauses in your award.
Is shift loading included in super?
Yes. Shift loadings for ordinary hours of work are part of OTE and are included when calculating the superannuation guarantee.
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.