Am I being underpaid? Check your shift pay
Most hourly workers in Australia are covered by an award that sets a minimum rate. The rate depends on your age, your level, whether you are full-time, part-time or casual, and when you work. Nights, weekends and public holidays usually pay more. This tool works out what the award says you should be paid for your shifts, so you can compare it with your payslip.
What to have ready
- Your age, because junior rates apply to many workers under 21.
- The industry you work in, or the award named on your payslip or contract.
- Your employment type: full-time, part-time or casual.
- The days and times you worked, your unpaid breaks, and what you were actually paid.
What the result shows
You get the award rate for each shift, your base pay, casual loading, weekend, evening and public holiday loadings, and overtime. If you enter what you were paid, it shows the difference. The pay rates pages list the hourly rates by age for each industry.
If the numbers do not match
Start by checking the award and your level on your payslip or contract, because a small difference there changes the rate. If you still think you were underpaid, the Fair Work Ombudsman has free information and can help you with the next steps. This is general information, not legal advice.
Common questions
How do I know which award applies to me?
It is usually named on your payslip or employment contract. If it is not, the Fair Work Ombudsman has an award finder, and your industry is a good starting point.
What are junior rates?
Many awards set a lower percentage of the adult rate for workers under 21. The percentage depends on your age. Enter your age and the calculator applies it.
Does the calculator cover casual loading and penalty rates?
Yes. It adds casual loading and the weekend, evening, public holiday and overtime loadings for the award you choose.
Is the result a legal finding?
No. It is an estimate from published award rates. Your award, agreement or contract may differ.