Lab Technician Pay Rate in NT 2025-26
Minimum pay rates for lab technicians in Northern Territory under the Health Professionals and Support Services Award 2020. Updated 1 July 2025.
Last verified: 1 July 2025Lab Technician — Minimum Pay Rate (NT)
Health Professionals and Support Services Award 2020 (MA000027)
$26.74
Base rate/hr
$33.43
Casual rate/hr
Lab technicians perform diagnostic tests, prepare samples, and operate laboratory equipment in medical, pathology, and research laboratories.
Northern Territory Note
Northern Territory workers may receive remote area allowances and have specific public holidays including Show Day.
Minimum Hourly Rates — Lab Technician
| Employment Type | Hourly Rate | Weekly (38hrs) | Annual |
|---|---|---|---|
| Full-time (adult) | $26.74/hr | $1,016.12 | $52,838.24 |
| Part-time (adult) | $26.74/hr | Pro-rata | Pro-rata |
| Casual (incl. 25% loading) | $33.43/hr | Varies | Varies |
Rates effective from 1 July 2025 under the Health Professionals and Support Services Award 2020.
Penalty Rates — Lab Technician
Saturday
$40.11/hr
1.5x base
Sunday
$53.48/hr
2x base
Public Holiday
$66.85/hr
2.5x base
Penalty rates shown for full-time/part-time Level 1 ($26.74/hr base). Casual employees receive penalty rates calculated on their base rate (before casual loading).
Classification Levels — Health Professionals and Support Services Award 2020
| Level | Description | Base Rate/hr | Casual Rate/hr | Annual (38hrs) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Support Level 4 | Lab assistant / sample processor | $25.68 | $32.10 | $50,743.68 |
| Support Level 5 | Lab technician | $26.74 | $33.43 | $52,838.24 |
| Level 1 | Senior lab technician / scientist | $28.54 | $35.68 | $56,395.04 |
| Level 2 | Laboratory manager / principal scientist | $31.35 | $39.19 | $61,947.60 |
View full Health Professionals and Support Services Award 2020 pay rates →
Am I Being Underpaid as a Lab Technician?
Lab technicians working in pathology labs often work shift patterns including early mornings and weekends. Common underpayment issues include incorrect shift penalty calculations.
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
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|---|---|---|---|
| Dental Assistant | $24.73/hr | $30.91/hr | $49.46/hr |
| Physiotherapist | $31.35/hr | $39.19/hr | $62.70/hr |
| Psychologist | $33.42/hr | $41.78/hr | $66.84/hr |
| Dental Receptionist | $25.15/hr | $31.44/hr | $50.30/hr |
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a lab technician get paid per hour in Northern Territory?
The minimum hourly rate for a lab technician in Northern Territory is $26.74/hr for full-time and part-time employees, or $33.43/hr for casuals (including 25% loading). This is the Level 1 adult rate under the Health Professionals and Support Services Award 2020 (MA000027), effective from 1 July 2025.
What is the minimum wage for a lab technician?
The minimum wage for a lab technician is $26.74 per hour ($1,016.12 per week for a 38-hour week, or $52,838.24 per year). This is set by the Health Professionals and Support Services Award 2020. Higher classification levels attract higher rates.
What award covers lab technicians?
Lab Technicians are covered by the Health Professionals and Support Services Award 2020 (MA000027). 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 lab technicians get penalty rates on weekends?
Yes. Under the Health Professionals and Support Services Award 2020, lab technicians receive 1.5x their base rate on Saturdays ($40.11/hr) and 2x on Sundays ($53.48/hr). Public holidays are paid at 2.5x ($66.85/hr).
What is the casual rate for a lab technician?
The casual rate for a lab technician is $33.43/hr, which includes a 25% casual loading on top of the base rate of $26.74/hr. The casual loading compensates for the lack of paid leave, notice of termination, and redundancy pay.
How much should a 17 year old lab technician get paid?
Lab technicians hold qualifications and are not subject to junior rates. The Health Professionals and Support Services 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 verify with the Fair Work Ombudsman (13 13 94) or a qualified professional.
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