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: 1 July 2025

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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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.

Award Classification Wizard — Find Your Level

Step 1 — Pick your award

Step 2 — Match your duties to a level

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