How do I know what classification level I am in my Modern Award?

Each Modern Award has classification descriptors that set out the duties, responsibilities, qualifications, and judgement required at each level. To find your level, compare your day-to-day duties against the descriptors for each level, working from the highest down. The lowest level whose descriptors fully describe your work is YOUR classification.

What if I do work that crosses multiple classification levels?

Under most Modern Awards, you must be classified at the HIGHEST level whose duties you regularly perform. If your usual duties are Level 3 but you regularly perform Level 4 tasks, you should be classified at Level 4. The 'mixed functions' rule prevents employers from paying you a lower rate while making you do higher-rated work.

Does my qualification automatically determine my classification?

Often yes, especially in trades, healthcare, and education awards. A Cert III in Childcare automatically places an educator at a specific level. A diploma further up. But qualifications are not the ONLY factor — duties also matter. You can be at a higher classification than your formal qualification if your duties exceed the level the qualification implies.

What if I think my employer has me at the wrong classification?

Step 1: identify the correct classification using this wizard + the award text. Step 2: write to your employer setting out your duties and the classification descriptor that matches, asking for reclassification. Step 3: if refused, calculate back-pay (you may be owed up to 6 years under s544 Fair Work Act) and lodge a complaint with the Fair Work Ombudsman.

Award Classification Wizard — Find Your Level

The Fair Work Ombudsman Award Finder tells you WHICH Modern Award covers you. This wizard tells you WHAT LEVEL within that award you should be classified at — the bit that determines your actual pay rate.

Last verified: 21 May 2026

Mixed-functions rule: if you regularly perform duties at a higher level than your nominal classification, you must be paid at the higher level. Many underpayment claims hinge on this.

Step 1 — Pick your award

Don't know your award? Use the Award Finder first.

Modern Award

Step 2 — Match your duties to a level

Read each level's description. Tick the HIGHEST level whose duties match the work you regularly do. Under the mixed-functions rule, if you regularly perform duties at a higher level than your nominal classification, you must be paid at the higher level.

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FairWork Mate is an independent commercial service. We are not affiliated with, endorsed by, or associated with the Fair Work Ombudsman, the Fair Work Commission, or any Australian Government agency. Content is 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.

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