How long can I work without a break in Australia?

Under most Modern Awards, employees are entitled to an unpaid meal break of 30-60 minutes after working 5 consecutive hours. Some awards also provide paid rest breaks of 10-15 minutes during the shift. The exact rules vary by award.

Are my breaks paid or unpaid?

Meal breaks (lunch/dinner) are generally unpaid and last 30-60 minutes. Rest breaks (tea breaks/morning breaks) are usually paid and last 10-15 minutes. Check your specific Modern Award for exact entitlements.

What if my employer does not give me a break?

If your employer does not provide legally required breaks, they may be breaching your Modern Award. You can raise this with your employer, contact the Fair Work Ombudsman (13 13 94), or lodge a complaint online at fairwork.gov.au.

Break Compliance Checker

Enter your award and shift details to check whether your meal and rest breaks meet the minimum requirements.

Last verified: 1 July 2025

Modern Award

Shift length*

hours

Enter the total length of the shift in hours

Meal break was taken

Was a meal break (e.g. lunch break) provided during the shift?

Rest break was taken

Was a paid rest break (e.g. tea break) provided during the shift?

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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.

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