Delivery Driver Pay Rate NT 2026-27
Delivery Drivers in Northern Territory earn at least $27.51/hr (Grade 1), $34.39/hr casual — about $1,045 a week full-time — under the Road Transport and Distribution Award 2020. Rates from 1 July 2026.
Last verified: 19 July 2026Delivery Driver — Minimum Pay Rate (NT)
Road Transport and Distribution Award 2020 (MA000038)
$27.51
Base rate/hr
$34.39
Casual rate/hr
Delivery drivers transport goods from warehouses to businesses and consumers. They load and unload freight, plan routes, and maintain delivery records. Local and multi-drop delivery work is covered by the Road Transport and Distribution Award (MA000038); interstate long-haul work falls under the separate Long Distance Operations Award (MA000039).
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Northern Territory Note
Northern Territory workers may receive remote area allowances and have specific public holidays including Show Day.
Minimum Hourly Rates — Delivery Driver
| Employment Type | Hourly Rate | Weekly (38hrs) | Annual |
|---|---|---|---|
| Full-time (adult) | $27.51/hr | $1,045.38 | $54,359.76 |
| Part-time (adult) | $27.51/hr | Pro-rata | Pro-rata |
| Casual (incl. 25% loading) | $34.39/hr | Varies | Varies |
Rates effective from 1 July 2026 under the Road Transport and Distribution Award 2020.
Penalty Rates — Delivery Driver
Saturday
$41.27/hr
1.5x base
Sunday
$55.02/hr
2x base
Public Holiday
$68.78/hr
2.5x base
Penalty rates shown for full-time/part-time Grade 1 ($27.51/hr base). Casual employees receive penalty rates calculated on their base rate (before casual loading).
Classification Levels — Road Transport and Distribution Award 2020
| Level | Description | Base Rate/hr | Casual Rate/hr | Annual (38hrs) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Grade 1 | Courier (foot or bicycle) / loader | $26.87 | $33.59 | $53,095.12 |
| Grade 2 | Driver of rigid vehicle up to 4.5t GVM — vans and utes (most local multi-drop delivery drivers) | $27.51 | $34.39 | $54,359.76 |
| Grade 3 | Driver of rigid vehicle over 4.5t up to 13.9t GVM | $27.83 | $34.79 | $54,992.08 |
| Grade 5 | Driver of articulated vehicle (3 axles, up to 22.4t GCM) | $28.67 | $35.84 | $56,651.92 |
View full Road Transport and Distribution Award 2020 pay rates →
Am I Being Underpaid as a Delivery Driver?
Delivery drivers are frequently misclassified as independent contractors, especially in gig economy roles. Employees are entitled to award minimums, overtime, and penalty rates.
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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Truck Driver | $28.67/hr | $35.84/hr | $57.34/hr |
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a delivery driver get paid per hour in Northern Territory?
The minimum hourly rate for a delivery driver in Northern Territory is $27.51/hr for full-time and part-time employees, or $34.39/hr for casuals (including 25% loading). This is the Grade 1 adult rate under the Road Transport and Distribution Award 2020 (MA000038), effective from 1 July 2026.
What is the minimum wage for a delivery driver?
The minimum wage for a delivery driver is $27.51 per hour ($1,045.38 per week for a 38-hour week, or $54,359.76 per year). This is set by the Road Transport and Distribution Award 2020. Higher classification levels attract higher rates.
What award covers delivery drivers?
Delivery Drivers are covered by the Road Transport and Distribution Award 2020 (MA000038). 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 delivery drivers get penalty rates on weekends?
Yes. Under the Road Transport and Distribution Award 2020, delivery drivers receive 1.5x their base rate on Saturdays ($41.27/hr) and 2x on Sundays ($55.02/hr). Public holidays are paid at 2.5x ($68.78/hr).
What is the casual rate for a delivery driver?
The casual rate for a delivery driver is $34.39/hr, which includes a 25% casual loading on top of the base rate of $27.51/hr. The casual loading compensates for the lack of paid leave, notice of termination, and redundancy pay.
How much should a 17 year old delivery driver get paid?
Delivery drivers must hold a valid licence. Junior rates do not typically apply. The Road Transport and Distribution 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 check your specific award, agreement or contract, or a qualified professional, before you rely on the result.
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