Minimum wage and junior pay rates for 15 year olds across all industries.
Last verified: 21 May 202615 year olds earn a minimum of $9.73/hr (37% of the adult rate)
Casual rate: $12.16/hr (with 25% loading). Based on the national minimum wage of $26.44/hr for adults (21+).
| Job | Base Rate | Casual Rate | % of Adult | Award |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Retail Worker | $10.23 | $12.79 | 37% | General Retail Industry Award 2020 |
| Barista | $13.22 | $16.53 | 50% | Hospitality Industry (General) Award 2020 |
| Waiter | $13.22 | $16.53 | 50% | Hospitality Industry (General) Award 2020 |
| Bartender | $13.22 | $16.53 | 50% | Hospitality Industry (General) Award 2020 |
| Kitchen Hand | $13.22 | $16.53 | 50% | Hospitality Industry (General) Award 2020 |
| Cleaner | $9.97 | $12.46 | 37% | Cleaning Services Award 2020 |
| Warehouse Worker | $18.96 | $23.70 | 70% | Storage Services and Wholesale Award 2020 |
| Hairdresser | $11.12 | $13.90 | 40% | Hair and Beauty Industry Award 2020 |
| Beauty Therapist | $11.12 | $13.90 | 40% | Hair and Beauty Industry Award 2020 |
| Pharmacy Assistant | $13.91 | $17.39 | 50% | Pharmacy Industry Award 2020 |
| Fast Food Worker | $11.12 | $13.90 | 40% | Fast Food Industry Award 2020 |
| Farm Worker | $13.22 | $16.53 | 50% | Pastoral Award 2020 |
| Factory Worker | $13.22 | $16.53 | 50% | Manufacturing and Associated Industries and Occupations Award 2020 |
Based on the national minimum junior rate of $9.73/hr:
| Hours/Week | Base Pay | Casual Pay |
|---|---|---|
| 10 hours | $97.30 | $121.60 |
| 15 hours | $145.95 | $182.40 |
| 20 hours | $194.60 | $243.20 |
| 25 hours | $243.25 | $304.00 |
| 30 hours | $291.90 | $364.80 |
| 38 hours | $369.74 | $462.08 |
When you turn 16, your minimum rate increases to $12.51/hr (47% of the adult rate) — an increase of $2.78/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.
The national minimum wage for a 15 year old is $9.73/hr, which is 37% of the adult rate of $26.44/hr. Actual rates vary by industry and award — some awards pay higher junior rates than the standard.
The minimum wage for 15 year olds in Australia is $9.73/hr for permanent employees and $12.16/hr for casuals (including 25% casual loading). This is based on the standard junior rate of 37% of the adult minimum wage.
There is no federal limit on hours for 15 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.
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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.
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