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: 2 August 2026

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?

FairWork Mate AI

Is the figure right for you?

The advisor reads your payslip, contract or letter against the Fair Work Commission case library and cites the decision behind every answer.

Renews monthly at A$29.99 until you cancel. By continuing you agree to our Terms.

Just need this week sorted? A 7-Day Pass is 50 questions over 7 days, no account. Get a 7-Day Pass — $14.99

Get pay and rights updates for your job

Free email updates when award rates, the minimum wage or workplace laws change.

Free forever. No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.

General information and estimates only — not legal, financial or tax advice. Always check your specific award, agreement or contract, or a qualified professional, before you rely on the result.

Embed the Break Compliance Checker on your site, free. Get the code →

Break Compliance Checker

Is the figure right for you?

Related Tools