How do I find out what award I'm on?

Check your employment contract or payslip — many employers list the applicable award. If not, you can search by your job title or industry. Australia has 121 Modern Awards that cover most industries. Your award determines your minimum pay rate, penalty rates, overtime, allowances, and leave entitlements. You can also call the Fair Work Infoline on 13 13 94.

What is a Modern Award in Australia?

A Modern Award is a legal document that sets out the minimum pay rates and conditions for employees in a particular industry or occupation. Awards are made by the Fair Work Commission and cover things like minimum wages, penalty rates, overtime, allowances, leave, and hours of work. Most employees in Australia are covered by an award unless they earn above the high-income threshold ($175,000) or are covered by an enterprise agreement.

What if I'm not covered by any award?

If no Modern Award covers your role, you are an 'award-free' employee. You are still entitled to the National Employment Standards (NES), which include the national minimum wage ($24.10/hr for adults), annual leave, personal leave, notice of termination, and redundancy pay. Some employees are covered by an enterprise agreement instead of an award.

What are classification levels in an award?

Each award has classification levels that match different skill levels, qualifications, and responsibilities. For example, a Level 1 retail employee might be an entry-level shop assistant, while a Level 7 might be a store manager. Higher classification levels have higher minimum pay rates. Your employer should classify you at the level that matches your actual duties.

Can my employer pay me less than my award rate?

No. Your employer must pay you at least the minimum rate for your classification level under your applicable award. Paying below the award rate is illegal and constitutes wage theft. Since 1 January 2025, intentional underpayment is a criminal offence. If you believe you're being underpaid, contact the Fair Work Ombudsman.

What Award Am I On?

Not sure which Modern Award covers your job? No worries — just type your job title or industry below and we'll find it for you, along with your minimum pay rates, penalty rates, and key entitlements.

Last verified: 1 July 2025

Modern Awards Explained: How to Find and Comply With Your Award

A 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.

Award Pay Rates 2025-26 — Modern Award Wages Guide Australia

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.

What Award Am I Under? Free Award Finder Tool (2026)

Not sure which Modern Award covers your job? Use our free Award Finder — enter your industry or job title and get your award code instantly. Covers all 120+ awards.

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.

What Award Am I On?

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