Working a 5-day week in Australia? Understand your hours distribution, penalty rates, rostering rights, and entitlements.
Last verified: 21 May 2026A 5-day work week at the standard 7.6 hours per day gives you 38 hours per week. This is the standard full-time arrangement under most Modern Awards.
Days Per Week
5
Hours Per Day
7.6
Total Weekly Hours
38
With a standard Monday-to-Friday pattern, penalty rates typically do not apply to ordinary hours.
Yes, a 5-day work week (Monday to Friday) is the standard full-time arrangement under most Modern Awards.
With a Monday–Friday pattern, penalty rates generally don't apply to ordinary hours. Penalties apply for work on Saturdays, Sundays, and public holidays.
To reach the standard 38-hour full-time week in 5 days, you would work 7.6 hours per day. The standard is 7.6 hours (or 7 hours 36 minutes) per day.
Your employer can only require you to work the days agreed in your contract and consistent with your award. Changes to your regular roster require consultation and reasonable notice (usually 7 days).
Most Modern Awards require at least one rostered day off per week, and many require two consecutive days off. If you are required to work on your rostered day off, penalty rates or overtime rates generally apply.
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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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