Childcare Worker Pay Rate in NT 2025-26
Minimum pay rates for childcare workers in Northern Territory under the Children's Services Award 2010. Updated 1 July 2025.
Last verified: 1 July 2025Childcare Worker — Minimum Pay Rate (NT)
Children's Services Award 2010 (MA000018)
$25.86
Base rate/hr
$32.33
Casual rate/hr
Childcare workers (early childhood educators) care for and educate children in childcare centres, preschools, and family day care settings.
Northern Territory Note
Northern Territory workers may receive remote area allowances and have specific public holidays including Show Day.
Minimum Hourly Rates — Childcare Worker
| Employment Type | Hourly Rate | Weekly (38hrs) | Annual |
|---|---|---|---|
| Full-time (adult) | $25.86/hr | $982.68 | $51,099.36 |
| Part-time (adult) | $25.86/hr | Pro-rata | Pro-rata |
| Casual (incl. 25% loading) | $32.33/hr | Varies | Varies |
Rates effective from 1 July 2025 under the Children's Services Award 2010.
Penalty Rates — Childcare Worker
Saturday
$38.79/hr
1.5x base
Sunday
$51.72/hr
2x base
Public Holiday
$64.65/hr
2.5x base
Penalty rates shown for full-time/part-time Level 1 ($25.86/hr base). Casual employees receive penalty rates calculated on their base rate (before casual loading).
Classification Levels — Children's Services Award 2010
| Level | Description | Base Rate/hr | Casual Rate/hr | Annual (38hrs) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Level 2.1 | Certificate III qualified | $25.86 | $32.33 | $51,099.36 |
| Level 3.1 | Diploma qualified educator | $27.08 | $33.85 | $53,510.08 |
| Level 3.3 | Experienced diploma educator | $28.54 | $35.68 | $56,395.04 |
| Level 4.1 | Room leader / coordinator | $29.95 | $37.44 | $59,181.20 |
| Level 5.1 | Centre director (small) | $32.07 | $40.09 | $63,370.32 |
Am I Being Underpaid as a Childcare Worker?
Childcare workers have historically been underpaid relative to their qualifications and responsibilities. The sector received a 15% pay increase in 2024 to address this gap.
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 →Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a childcare worker get paid per hour in Northern Territory?
The minimum hourly rate for a childcare worker in Northern Territory is $25.86/hr for full-time and part-time employees, or $32.33/hr for casuals (including 25% loading). This is the Level 1 adult rate under the Children's Services Award 2010 (MA000018), effective from 1 July 2025.
What is the minimum wage for a childcare worker?
The minimum wage for a childcare worker is $25.86 per hour ($982.68 per week for a 38-hour week, or $51,099.36 per year). This is set by the Children's Services Award 2010. Higher classification levels attract higher rates.
What award covers childcare workers?
Childcare Workers are covered by the Children's Services Award 2010 (MA000018). 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 childcare workers get penalty rates on weekends?
Yes. Under the Children's Services Award 2010, childcare workers receive 1.5x their base rate on Saturdays ($38.79/hr) and 2x on Sundays ($51.72/hr). Public holidays are paid at 2.5x ($64.65/hr).
What is the casual rate for a childcare worker?
The casual rate for a childcare worker is $32.33/hr, which includes a 25% casual loading on top of the base rate of $25.86/hr. The casual loading compensates for the lack of paid leave, notice of termination, and redundancy pay.
How much should a 17 year old childcare worker get paid?
The Children's Services Award does not have junior rates as qualifications are typically required. The Children's Services Award 2010 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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