Everything you need to know about working a 10-hour shift in Australia — break entitlements, rest periods, award variations, and your rights.
Last verified: 21 May 2026On a 10-hour shift, you are generally entitled to 4 breaks: a paid 10 minutes rest break after 4 hours, a unpaid 30–60 minutes meal break after 5 hours, a paid 10 minutes additional rest break after 7 hours, a unpaid 30 minutes second meal break after 10 hours. Exact entitlements depend on your Modern Award or enterprise agreement.
| After | Break Type | Duration | Paid? |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4 hours | Rest break | 10 minutes | Paid |
| 5 hours | Meal break | 30–60 minutes | Unpaid |
| 7 hours | Additional rest break | 10 minutes | Paid |
| 10 hours | Second meal break | 30 minutes | Unpaid |
Break rules vary by award. Here are some examples relevant to a 10-hour shift:
Most awards require a minimum 12-hour rest period between shifts for workers on extended shifts.
If you do not receive the required rest period between shifts, many awards require that you be paid at overtime rates until you are released from duty and have had the required rest.
Under s62 of the Fair Work Act, you can refuse to work additional hours that are unreasonable. Factors considered include: risk to your health and safety, your personal circumstances (family or caring responsibilities), the notice given by your employer, whether you are entitled to overtime, and the nature of your role.
On a 10-hour shift, most Modern Awards entitle you to two meal breaks and two rest breaks. Exact entitlements depend on your award.
Yes, a 10-hour shift is legal in Australia provided your employer complies with break requirements, maximum weekly hours (38 ordinary + reasonable additional hours), and rest periods between shifts under your applicable Modern Award.
Rest breaks (typically 10 minutes) are usually paid. Meal breaks (30–60 minutes) are usually unpaid. Some awards and enterprise agreements provide paid meal breaks for certain shift types, such as continuous shift work.
Most awards require a minimum 8–12 hour break between shifts. For extended shifts like yours, 10–12 hours is typical. If you don't get enough rest, you may be entitled to overtime rates.
You can refuse unreasonable additional hours under s62 of the Fair Work Act. Whether a 10-hour shift is unreasonable depends on health risks, notice given, your personal circumstances, and whether you receive overtime pay.
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FairWork Mate is an independent commercial service. We are not affiliated with, endorsed by, or associated with the Fair Work Ombudsman, the Fair Work Commission, or any Australian Government agency. Content is 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.
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