Casual Loading Calculator
Calculate your casual loaded rate and compare total casual pay against permanent employment. See whether the 25% loading covers what you miss out on in paid leave.
Last verified: 1 July 2025Casual overtime — does the 1.5× apply to the base rate or the casual rate?
One of the most common payroll questions under Australian Modern Awards. The answer depends on how your award is drafted. There are three treatments in use across the awards we've researched:
- Additive — the 25% casual loading is added to the penalty percentage. A 150% overtime rate becomes 175% of the ordinary (base) rate; 200% becomes 225%. Used by MA000020 (Building), MA000009 (Hospitality), MA000004 (Retail), MA000002 (Clerks), MA000003a (Fast Food).
- Compounded — the award defines a “casual ordinary hourly rate” that is already 25% loaded, and the overtime multiplier is applied to that. Used by MA000010 (Manufacturing), MA000034 (Nurses), MA000018 (Aged Care, post-March 2021).
- Separate — the 25% loading applies to ordinary hours only; overtime is on the base rate without the loading. Used by MA000013 / MA000100 (SCHADS).
Pick the award and classification below — the calculator shows all three methods side-by-side and highlights the one this award actually uses, with the clause reference.
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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.