WORKER GUIDE

Understanding Australian pay rates

Your legal minimum is not always one universal hourly number.

Awards and agreements

For most employees, the minimum wage is set by the award covering their industry or occupation. Registered agreements can also set pay and conditions.

Penalty rates

Higher rates can apply for particular times or days. The applicable rules depend on the award or agreement.

Why TORVILO asks you for a rate

TORVILO lets you enter a rate you have verified for your circumstances rather than claiming to determine every worker's legal rate.

Current context (September 2026): The National Minimum Wage is $26.44 per hour or $1,004.90 per week from 1 July 2026 for employees not covered by an award or registered agreement. Most employees are covered by an award, so check the rate that applies to you.

Check official rates

Use the Fair Work Ombudsman minimum wages information and official pay guides to verify current rates.