What are penalty rates in Australia?

Penalty rates are higher pay rates that employees receive for working outside normal hours, including weekends, public holidays, late nights, and early mornings. The exact rates depend on your Modern Award, classification level, and employment type. Common penalty rates include time-and-a-half for Saturday work and double time for Sunday work, though this varies by award.

How much extra do you get paid on Sundays in Australia?

Sunday penalty rates vary by award and employment type. For most full-time and part-time employees, Sunday rates range from 150% to 200% (double time) of the base rate. For example, under the General Retail Industry Award, permanent employees receive 200% on Sundays. Casual employees may receive different rates depending on their award.

Do casual workers get penalty rates in Australia?

Yes, casual employees are entitled to penalty rates under their applicable award. However, the way penalty rates interact with casual loading varies. Under most awards, the penalty rate is calculated on the base hourly rate (not including casual loading), and the casual loading may or may not apply on top depending on the specific award provisions.

How much do you get paid on public holidays in Australia?

Most awards provide penalty rates of 200% to 250% of the base rate for work performed on public holidays. For example, full-time and part-time employees receive double time and a quarter (225%) under the Retail, Hospitality, Fast Food and Restaurant awards, and double time and a half (250%) under the Clerks Award and many others; casuals usually get 25 points more (250% or 275%). Employees can also refuse to work on a public holiday if the request is unreasonable.

Penalty Rate Calculator

Select your award, classification, and penalty type to calculate your penalty rate for weekends, public holidays, evenings, and overtime.

Last verified: 2 August 2026Jump to calculator ↓

Typical penalty rate multipliers across weekday, Saturday, Sunday and public holiday shifts, from 1.0× ordinary up to 2.5× on public holiday evenings

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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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