Mechanic Pay Rate in QLD 2025-26
Minimum pay rates for mechanics in Queensland under the Vehicle Repair, Services and Retail Award 2020. Updated 1 July 2025.
Last verified: 1 July 2025Mechanic — Minimum Pay Rate (QLD)
Vehicle Repair, Services and Retail Award 2020 (MA000089)
$29.47
Base rate/hr
$36.84
Casual rate/hr
Mechanics inspect, diagnose, repair, and service motor vehicles including cars, trucks, and motorcycles.
Queensland Note
Queensland workers are entitled to state-specific public holidays including Royal Queensland Show (Ekka) in Brisbane.
Minimum Hourly Rates — Mechanic
| Employment Type | Hourly Rate | Weekly (38hrs) | Annual |
|---|---|---|---|
| Full-time (adult) | $29.47/hr | $1,119.86 | $58,232.72 |
| Part-time (adult) | $29.47/hr | Pro-rata | Pro-rata |
| Casual (incl. 25% loading) | $36.84/hr | Varies | Varies |
Rates effective from 1 July 2025 under the Vehicle Repair, Services and Retail Award 2020.
Penalty Rates — Mechanic
Saturday
$44.21/hr
1.5x base
Sunday
$58.94/hr
2x base
Public Holiday
$73.68/hr
2.5x base
Penalty rates shown for full-time/part-time Level 1 ($29.47/hr base). Casual employees receive penalty rates calculated on their base rate (before casual loading).
Classification Levels — Vehicle Repair, Services and Retail Award 2020
| Level | Description | Base Rate/hr | Casual Rate/hr | Annual (38hrs) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Level 3 | Vehicle service worker | $27.14 | $33.93 | $53,628.64 |
| Level 4 | Mechanic (tradesperson) | $29.47 | $36.84 | $58,232.72 |
| Level 5 | Advanced tradesperson | $30.78 | $38.48 | $60,821.28 |
| Level 6 | Leading hand / diagnostic specialist | $32.25 | $40.31 | $63,726.00 |
View full Vehicle Repair, Services and Retail Award 2020 pay rates →
Am I Being Underpaid as a Mechanic?
Mechanics who hold additional certifications (e.g., air conditioning, auto electrical) should check they are classified at the appropriate advanced tradesperson level.
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 mechanic get paid per hour in Queensland?
The minimum hourly rate for a mechanic in Queensland is $29.47/hr for full-time and part-time employees, or $36.84/hr for casuals (including 25% loading). This is the Level 1 adult rate under the Vehicle Repair, Services and Retail Award 2020 (MA000089), effective from 1 July 2025.
What is the minimum wage for a mechanic?
The minimum wage for a mechanic is $29.47 per hour ($1,119.86 per week for a 38-hour week, or $58,232.72 per year). This is set by the Vehicle Repair, Services and Retail Award 2020. Higher classification levels attract higher rates.
What award covers mechanics?
Mechanics are covered by the Vehicle Repair, Services and Retail Award 2020 (MA000089). 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 mechanics get penalty rates on weekends?
Yes. Under the Vehicle Repair, Services and Retail Award 2020, mechanics receive 1.5x their base rate on Saturdays ($44.21/hr) and 2x on Sundays ($58.94/hr). Public holidays are paid at 2.5x ($73.68/hr).
What is the casual rate for a mechanic?
The casual rate for a mechanic is $36.84/hr, which includes a 25% casual loading on top of the base rate of $29.47/hr. The casual loading compensates for the lack of paid leave, notice of termination, and redundancy pay.
How much should a 17 year old mechanic get paid?
Apprentice rates apply during the apprenticeship. Qualified mechanics receive the full tradesperson rate. The Vehicle Repair, Services and Retail Award 2020 does not have specific junior rates for this classification.
Useful Tools
Browse All Job Pay Rates
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.
Learn more
Complete guide to modern award pay rates for 2025-26. Covers the 3.75% increase, how to find your award, minimum wage levels, penalty rates, overtime, and allowances under the Fair Work system.
Modern Awards Explained: How to Find and Comply With Your AwardA plain-English guide to modern awards in Australia for 2026. Learn what a modern award is, how to determine which one applies to your business, pay rates, penalty and overtime rates, allowances, and the most common compliance mistakes employers make.
Apprentice Pay Rates 2026: How Much Should Apprentices Be Paid? (By Year + Trade)Apprentice pay rates depend on your year of apprenticeship, age, and trade. See 2025-26 rates for electrical, plumbing, carpentry, automotive, and chef apprenticeships. Includes adult apprentice rates, tool allowances, and competency-based progression.