14 Year Old Pay Rate Australia 2026
Minimum wage and junior pay rates for 14 year olds across all industries.
Last verified: 1 July 202514 year olds earn a minimum of $8.87/hr (37% of the adult rate)
Casual rate: $11.09/hr (with 25% loading). Based on the national minimum wage of $24.10/hr for adults (21+).
Junior Pay Rates by Job — Age 14
| Job | Base Rate | Casual Rate | % of Adult | Award |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Retail Worker | $8.87 | $11.09 | 37% | General Retail Industry Award 2020 |
| Barista | $12.05 | $15.06 | 50% | Hospitality Industry (General) Award 2020 |
| Waiter | $12.05 | $15.06 | 50% | Hospitality Industry (General) Award 2020 |
| Bartender | $12.05 | $15.06 | 50% | Hospitality Industry (General) Award 2020 |
| Kitchen Hand | $12.05 | $15.06 | 50% | Hospitality Industry (General) Award 2020 |
| Cleaner | $8.87 | $11.09 | 37% | Cleaning Services Award 2020 |
| Warehouse Worker | $17.31 | $21.64 | 70% | Storage Services and Wholesale Award 2020 |
| Hairdresser | $9.64 | $12.05 | 40% | Hair and Beauty Industry Award 2020 |
| Beauty Therapist | $9.64 | $12.05 | 40% | Hair and Beauty Industry Award 2020 |
| Pharmacy Assistant | $12.05 | $15.06 | 50% | Pharmacy Industry Award 2020 |
| Fast Food Worker | $9.64 | $12.05 | 40% | Fast Food Industry Award 2020 |
| Farm Worker | $12.37 | $15.46 | 50% | Pastoral Award 2020 |
| Factory Worker | $12.37 | $15.46 | 50% | Manufacturing and Associated Industries and Occupations Award 2020 |
Weekly Earnings at Age 14
Based on the national minimum junior rate of $8.87/hr:
| Hours/Week | Base Pay | Casual Pay |
|---|---|---|
| 10 hours | $88.70 | $110.90 |
| 15 hours | $133.05 | $166.35 |
| 20 hours | $177.40 | $221.80 |
| 25 hours | $221.75 | $277.25 |
| 30 hours | $266.10 | $332.70 |
| 38 hours | $337.06 | $421.42 |
When Does My Pay Go Up?
When you turn 15, your minimum rate increases to $8.87/hr (37% of the adult rate) — an increase of $0.00/hr.
Your employer must increase your pay rate from your birthday. If they don't, you may be entitled to back pay for every hour worked at the old rate.
Work Hour Restrictions for Under-18s
- Most states limit school-age workers to 12 hours per week during school term
- Work must not be performed during school hours
- Rest breaks must be provided — typically 30 minutes after 4 hours
- Parental consent may be required for workers under 15 in some states
- Certain hazardous work is prohibited for workers under 18 (e.g., operating heavy machinery, working at heights)
- During school holidays, extended hours may be permitted but overnight work is generally restricted
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Frequently Asked Questions
How much should a 14 year old get paid?
The national minimum wage for a 14 year old is $8.87/hr, which is 37% of the adult rate of $24.10/hr. Actual rates vary by industry and award — some awards pay higher junior rates than the standard.
What is minimum wage for 14 year olds?
The minimum wage for 14 year olds in Australia is $8.87/hr for permanent employees and $11.09/hr for casuals (including 25% casual loading). This is based on the standard junior rate of 37% of the adult minimum wage.
How many hours can a 14 year old work?
There is no federal limit on hours for 14 year olds, but state laws apply. Most states restrict under-18s to a maximum of 12 hours per week during school term (excluding weekends). During school holidays, hours may be extended. Employers must ensure work does not interfere with schooling.
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.