Working a 7-day week in Australia? Understand your hours distribution, penalty rates, rostering rights, and entitlements.
Last verified: 21 May 2026Working 7 days per week is uncommon and heavily regulated. Most awards require at least one day off per week. You have the right to refuse unreasonable additional hours under s62 of the Fair Work Act.
Days Per Week
7
Hours Per Day
5.4
Total Weekly Hours
38
Working 7 days a week means both Saturday and Sunday penalties apply. Sunday rates are typically 175% to 200% of the base rate. Under most awards, working 7 consecutive days is only permitted in specific circumstances.
| Day | Typical Penalty Rate |
|---|---|
| Monday – Friday | 100% (ordinary rate) |
| Saturday | 125% – 150% |
| Sunday | 150% – 200% |
| Public Holidays | 200% – 250% |
Rates vary by award. Use the Penalty Rate Calculator for your exact rates.
A 7-day work week is not standard. Most awards provide for 5-day weeks with penalty rates applying for the 6th and 7th day.
Working 7 days typically includes weekend work. Saturday penalty rates are usually 125%–150% and Sunday rates 150%–200% of the base rate under most awards.
To reach the standard 38-hour full-time week in 7 days, you would work 5.4 hours per day. However, most awards cap daily ordinary hours at 10–12, so 7-day weeks may involve overtime.
Your employer can only require you to work the days agreed in your contract and consistent with your award. Requiring 6 or 7 days without agreement may constitute unreasonable additional hours under s62 of the Fair Work Act.
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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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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