A double shift means working two consecutive shifts, typically 14–16 hours. Under s62 of the Fair Work Act, an employer must not require unreasonable additional hours. You have the right to refuse if the hours pose a health or safety risk.
Last verified: 21 May 2026A double shift means working two consecutive shifts, typically 14–16 hours. Under s62 of the Fair Work Act, an employer must not require unreasonable additional hours. You have the right to refuse if the hours pose a health or safety risk.
A double shift occurs when an employee works two back-to-back shifts, usually because of staff shortages, emergencies, or operational demand. A typical double shift is 14–16 hours. There is no single legal definition — it simply means working significantly more than your usual rostered hours in one day.
The Fair Work Act (s62) sets the maximum ordinary hours at 38 per week for full-time employees. Hours beyond this are additional hours, and an employer can only request additional hours that are 'reasonable'. Whether a double shift is reasonable depends on: risk to health and safety, the employee's personal circumstances, the needs of the workplace, whether the employee is entitled to overtime pay, the amount of notice given, and the employee's role and level of responsibility.
Hours worked beyond your ordinary hours attract overtime rates under most awards — typically 150% (time and a half) for the first 2–3 hours and 200% (double time) thereafter. Some awards pay double time for all hours worked on a double shift.
Most awards require a minimum 8–12 hour break between the end of one shift and the start of the next. If a double shift cuts into this rest period, you may be entitled to be released without loss of pay until you have had the required rest break. The Nurses Award, for example, requires a minimum 10-hour break.
Yes. Under s62 of the Fair Work Act, you can refuse additional hours if they are unreasonable. A double shift that poses a safety risk, was sprung on you with no notice, or conflicts with caring responsibilities is likely unreasonable. Document your refusal in writing.
Not if it's unreasonable. Under s62 of the Fair Work Act, you can refuse unreasonable additional hours. Factors include health risk, notice, personal circumstances, and overtime pay.
There is no single legal maximum daily hours, but total weekly ordinary hours are capped at 38. Your award may set daily limits (usually 10–12 hours for ordinary time). Hours beyond this are overtime.
Yes. Hours beyond your ordinary daily hours attract overtime rates — typically 150% for the first 2–3 hours and 200% after that under most awards.
Most awards require a minimum 8–12 hour break between shifts. After an extended shift, some awards require a longer rest period before the next shift.
It is not illegal per se, but your employer must comply with WHS obligations and cannot require unreasonable hours. A 16-hour shift raises serious safety concerns that strengthen your right to refuse.
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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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