Accountant Pay Rate in SA 2025-26
Minimum pay rates for accountants in South Australia under the Clerks - Private Sector Award 2020. Updated 1 July 2025.
Last verified: 1 July 2025Accountant — Minimum Pay Rate (SA)
Clerks - Private Sector Award 2020 (MA000002)
$27.14
Base rate/hr
$33.93
Casual rate/hr
Accountants prepare financial statements, manage tax compliance, and provide financial advice to individuals and businesses. Many accountants are award-free or covered by enterprise agreements.
South Australia Note
South Australia workers may have state-specific entitlements. Check with SafeWork SA for occupational health requirements.
Minimum Hourly Rates — Accountant
| Employment Type | Hourly Rate | Weekly (38hrs) | Annual |
|---|---|---|---|
| Full-time (adult) | $27.14/hr | $1,031.32 | $53,628.64 |
| Part-time (adult) | $27.14/hr | Pro-rata | Pro-rata |
| Casual (incl. 25% loading) | $33.93/hr | Varies | Varies |
Rates effective from 1 July 2025 under the Clerks - Private Sector Award 2020.
Penalty Rates — Accountant
Saturday
$40.71/hr
1.5x base
Sunday
$54.28/hr
2x base
Public Holiday
$67.85/hr
2.5x base
Penalty rates shown for full-time/part-time Level 1 ($27.14/hr base). Casual employees receive penalty rates calculated on their base rate (before casual loading).
Classification Levels — Clerks - Private Sector Award 2020
| Level | Description | Base Rate/hr | Casual Rate/hr | Annual (38hrs) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Level 4 | Bookkeeper / junior accountant | $27.14 | $33.93 | $53,628.64 |
| Level 5 | Accountant | $28.54 | $35.68 | $56,395.04 |
Am I Being Underpaid as a Accountant?
Many accountants earn above-award rates. However, junior accountants and bookkeepers in smaller firms should check they are receiving at least the Clerks Award minimum for their classification level.
If you think you are being paid below the minimum rate, you can calculate your potential back pay and check your rights.
Check If You Are Underpaid →Related Jobs Under the Same Award
| Job | Base Rate | Casual Rate | Sunday |
|---|---|---|---|
| Receptionist | $24.10/hr | $30.13/hr | $48.20/hr |
| Admin Officer | $24.73/hr | $30.91/hr | $49.46/hr |
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a accountant get paid per hour in South Australia?
The minimum hourly rate for a accountant in South Australia is $27.14/hr for full-time and part-time employees, or $33.93/hr for casuals (including 25% loading). This is the Level 1 adult rate under the Clerks - Private Sector Award 2020 (MA000002), effective from 1 July 2025.
What is the minimum wage for a accountant?
The minimum wage for a accountant is $27.14 per hour ($1,031.32 per week for a 38-hour week, or $53,628.64 per year). This is set by the Clerks - Private Sector Award 2020. Higher classification levels attract higher rates.
What award covers accountants?
Accountants are covered by the Clerks - Private Sector Award 2020 (MA000002). This Modern Award sets minimum pay rates, penalty rates, allowances, and leave entitlements. Your employer may also have an enterprise agreement with different (usually higher) rates.
Do accountants get penalty rates on weekends?
Yes. Under the Clerks - Private Sector Award 2020, accountants receive 1.5x their base rate on Saturdays ($40.71/hr) and 2x on Sundays ($54.28/hr). Public holidays are paid at 2.5x ($67.85/hr).
What is the casual rate for a accountant?
The casual rate for a accountant is $33.93/hr, which includes a 25% casual loading on top of the base rate of $27.14/hr. The casual loading compensates for the lack of paid leave, notice of termination, and redundancy pay.
How much should a 17 year old accountant get paid?
Accountants are typically classified based on qualifications and experience. The Clerks - Private Sector Award 2020 does not have specific junior rates for this classification.
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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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