Truck Driver Pay Rate NT 2026-27
Truck Drivers in Northern Territory earn at least $28.67/hr (Grade 3), $35.84/hr casual — about $1,089 a week full-time — under the Road Transport and Distribution Award 2020. Rates from 1 July 2026.
Last verified: 19 July 2026Truck Driver — Minimum Pay Rate (NT)
Road Transport and Distribution Award 2020 (MA000038)
$28.67
Base rate/hr
$35.84
Casual rate/hr
Truck drivers transport goods by road using light, medium, heavy, and multi-combination vehicles. Rates vary by vehicle class and licence type. Local and general haulage 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 — Truck Driver
| Employment Type | Hourly Rate | Weekly (38hrs) | Annual |
|---|---|---|---|
| Full-time (adult) | $28.67/hr | $1,089.46 | $56,651.92 |
| Part-time (adult) | $28.67/hr | Pro-rata | Pro-rata |
| Casual (incl. 25% loading) | $35.84/hr | Varies | Varies |
Rates effective from 1 July 2026 under the Road Transport and Distribution Award 2020.
Penalty Rates — Truck Driver
Saturday
$43.01/hr
1.5x base
Sunday
$57.34/hr
2x base
Public Holiday
$71.68/hr
2.5x base
Penalty rates shown for full-time/part-time Grade 3 ($28.67/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 3 | Two-axle rigid truck over 4.5t up to 13.9t GVM | $27.83 | $34.79 | $54,992.08 |
| Grade 4 | Three-axle rigid truck over 13.9t GVM | $28.32 | $35.40 | $55,960.32 |
| Grade 5 | Rigid truck 4+ axles / articulated vehicle up to 22.4t GCM | $28.67 | $35.84 | $56,651.92 |
| Grade 6 | Rigid + heavy trailer combination over 22.4t up to 53.4t GCM | $29.00 | $36.25 | $57,304.00 |
| Grade 7 | B-double up to 53.4t GCM / low loader over 43t GCM | $29.42 | $36.78 | $58,133.92 |
| Grade 8 | B-double or rigid + trailer(s) over 53.4t GCM | $30.28 | $37.85 | $59,833.28 |
View full Road Transport and Distribution Award 2020 pay rates →
Am I Being Underpaid as a Truck Driver?
Truck drivers are often misclassified as independent contractors (sham contracting). If you drive your employer's truck, follow their directions, and don't have your own ABN business, you may be an employee entitled to award 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Delivery Driver | $27.51/hr | $34.39/hr | $55.02/hr |
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a truck driver get paid per hour in Northern Territory?
The minimum hourly rate for a truck driver in Northern Territory is $28.67/hr for full-time and part-time employees, or $35.84/hr for casuals (including 25% loading). This is the Grade 3 adult rate under the Road Transport and Distribution Award 2020 (MA000038), effective from 1 July 2026.
What is the minimum wage for a truck driver?
The minimum wage for a truck driver is $28.67 per hour ($1,089.46 per week for a 38-hour week, or $56,651.92 per year). This is set by the Road Transport and Distribution Award 2020. Higher classification levels attract higher rates.
What award covers truck drivers?
Truck 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 truck drivers get penalty rates on weekends?
Yes. Under the Road Transport and Distribution Award 2020, truck drivers receive 1.5x their base rate on Saturdays ($43.01/hr) and 2x on Sundays ($57.34/hr). Public holidays are paid at 2.5x ($71.68/hr).
What is the casual rate for a truck driver?
The casual rate for a truck driver is $35.84/hr, which includes a 25% casual loading on top of the base rate of $28.67/hr. The casual loading compensates for the lack of paid leave, notice of termination, and redundancy pay.
How much should a 17 year old truck driver get paid?
Truck driving requires a licence and minimum age requirements. 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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