Mechanic Pay Rate SA 2026-27
Mechanics in South Australia earn at least $29.45/hr (Level 3), $36.81/hr casual — about $1,119 a week full-time — under the Vehicle Repair, Services and Retail Award 2020. Rates from 1 July 2026.
Last verified: 19 July 2026Mechanic — Minimum Pay Rate (SA)
Vehicle Repair, Services and Retail Award 2020 (MA000089)
$29.45
Base rate/hr
$36.81
Casual rate/hr
Mechanics inspect, diagnose, repair, and service motor vehicles including cars, trucks, and motorcycles.
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South Australia Note
South Australia workers may have state-specific entitlements. Check with SafeWork SA for occupational health requirements.
Minimum Hourly Rates — Mechanic
| Employment Type | Hourly Rate | Weekly (38hrs) | Annual |
|---|---|---|---|
| Full-time (adult) | $29.45/hr | $1,119.10 | $58,193.20 |
| Part-time (adult) | $29.45/hr | Pro-rata | Pro-rata |
| Casual (incl. 25% loading) | $36.81/hr | Varies | Varies |
Rates effective from 1 July 2026 under the Vehicle Repair, Services and Retail Award 2020.
Penalty Rates — Mechanic
Saturday
$44.18/hr
1.5x base
Sunday
$58.90/hr
2x base
Public Holiday
$73.63/hr
2.5x base
Penalty rates shown for full-time/part-time Level 3 ($29.45/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 | $27.08 | $33.85 | $53,510.08 |
| Level 4 | Mechanic (tradesperson) | $27.97 | $34.96 | $55,268.72 |
| Level 5 | Advanced tradesperson | $28.64 | $35.80 | $56,592.64 |
| Level 6 | Leading hand / diagnostic specialist | $29.45 | $36.81 | $58,193.20 |
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 South Australia?
The minimum hourly rate for a mechanic in South Australia is $29.45/hr for full-time and part-time employees, or $36.81/hr for casuals (including 25% loading). This is the Level 3 adult rate under the Vehicle Repair, Services and Retail Award 2020 (MA000089), effective from 1 July 2026.
What is the minimum wage for a mechanic?
The minimum wage for a mechanic is $29.45 per hour ($1,119.10 per week for a 38-hour week, or $58,193.20 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 ($44.18/hr) and 2x on Sundays ($58.90/hr). Public holidays are paid at 2.5x ($73.63/hr).
What is the casual rate for a mechanic?
The casual rate for a mechanic is $36.81/hr, which includes a 25% casual loading on top of the base rate of $29.45/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.
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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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