18 Year Old Factory Worker Pay Rate 2026-27
How junior pay works for an 18 year old factory worker under the Manufacturing Award, with the award-free floor, casual loading and penalty rates.
Last verified: 3 September 2026An 18 year old factory worker is paid a junior percentage of $26.44/hr (adult C14)
The Manufacturing and Associated Industries and Occupations Award 2020 sets junior rates by age, but the FWC pay database does not publish that schedule as separate rows, so we do not quote a figure. The floor for any 18 year old is the award-free minimum of $18.06/hr ($22.58/hr casual).
Award & classification
Manufacturing and Associated Industries and Occupations Award 2020
MA000010
C14 — Production worker (entry)
Percentage set by the award
Penalty rates at age 18
| When | Multiplier | Hourly rate |
|---|---|---|
| Weekday (ordinary hours) | 1x | junior base × multiplier |
| Saturday | 1.5x | junior base × multiplier |
| Sunday | 2x | junior base × multiplier |
| Public holiday | 2.5x | junior base × multiplier |
| Evening (after 7pm) | 1.15x | junior base × multiplier |
When I turn 19
Junior rates step up on each birthday under the Manufacturing and Associated Industries and Occupations Award 2020 until the adult rate applies. Rate increases for adults come from the annual Fair Work Commission wage review (usually effective July).
Related resources
Factory Worker rate by age
Frequently asked questions
How much should an 18 year old factory worker get paid?
The Manufacturing and Associated Industries and Occupations Award 2020 pays juniors a percentage of the adult rate ($26.44/hr at C14). The FWC pay database does not publish that schedule as separate rows, so check the award's junior rates clause. Whatever the award says, an 18 year old can never be paid less than the award-free minimum of $18.06/hr.
What is the casual rate for an 18 year old factory worker?
Casuals get a 25% loading on top of the junior base rate. Once you know your junior percentage under the Manufacturing and Associated Industries and Occupations Award 2020, multiply the base rate by 1.25.
When will an 18 year old factory worker's pay go up?
Junior rates step up on each birthday until the adult rate applies. Check the Manufacturing and Associated Industries and Occupations Award 2020 for the percentage at 19.
Do 18 year old factory workers get penalty rates?
Yes. Penalty rates apply to the junior base rate: Saturdays 1.5x, Sundays 2x and public holidays 2.5x under the Manufacturing and Associated Industries and Occupations Award 2020.
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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.