Minimum Wage Tracker
Check the current National Minimum Wage in Australia and understand the minimum pay you are entitled to.
Quick Use Samples
Minimum Wage Details
Current Rates (2025)
Adult Minimum: $23.23/hour
Weekly (38hrs): $882.74
Last Updated: July 1, 2024
Minimum Wage Calculation
For an adult employee under the National (Fair Work) rules, the minimum hourly rate is $23.23. Based on a 38-hour week, this equates to a weekly pay of $882.74 and an annual gross income of $45,902.48.
Pay Breakdown
Casual Rates (25% Loading)
Important Notes
- • Award rates may be higher than minimum wage
- • Penalty rates apply for overtime, weekends, holidays
- • Apprentices have different rates in first year
- • Check your specific award or agreement
Historical Minimum Wage Growth (Nominal vs. Real)
This shows the growth in purchasing power after accounting for inflation (CPI).
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What is the Minimum Wage in Australia?
The National Minimum Wage is the minimum hourly rate an employee can be paid for work in Australia. It is reviewed annually by the Fair Work Commission. For employees covered by a Modern Award, the minimum wage is set by that specific award and will be higher than the National Minimum Wage.
Behind the Formula
The calculator uses the current National Minimum Wage rate as set by the Fair Work Commission. It multiplies this hourly rate by the number of hours worked in a standard week (typically 38 hours for a full-time employee) to determine the minimum gross weekly pay. It can then compare this figure against an employee's actual pay to identify any potential underpayment.
Expert Insights
- Most employees in Australia are covered by a Modern Award, not the National Minimum Wage. There are over 100 industry or occupation awards, and they set higher minimum wages and specific conditions, such as penalty rates and allowances.
- 'Wage theft' is a serious issue in Australia. It's crucial for employees, especially young workers and temporary migrants, to know their rights and the correct minimum pay rate for their job under the relevant award.
- The annual wage review by the Fair Work Commission takes into account a range of factors, including the state of the economy, inflation, and social considerations, to determine the new minimum wage for the following financial year.
Actionable Tips
- Use the Fair Work Ombudsman's Pay and Conditions Tool (PACT) to find your specific Modern Award and the exact minimum wage you should be paid.
- Keep your own detailed records of the hours you work and check them against your payslips. Ensure your employer is paying you for all time worked, including any overtime.
- If you believe you are being underpaid, contact the Fair Work Ombudsman for free advice and assistance. They can help you resolve the issue with your employer and recover any unpaid wages.
Real-World Examples
A Fast Food Worker
A 19-year-old worker in the fast food industry is covered by the Fast Food Industry Award. Their minimum hourly rate is higher than the National Minimum Wage and also includes specific penalty rates for working late nights or on weekends.
Identifying Underpayment
An international student is being paid a flat rate of $20 per hour for their work in a restaurant. Using the tracker and the Fair Work tool, they discover the minimum award rate for their role is over $25, and they are being underpaid. They contact the Fair Work Ombudsman for help.
Full-Time Employee on Minimum Wage
A full-time employee working 38 hours a week on the National Minimum Wage will have their pay increase automatically from July 1st each year following the Fair Work Commission's annual wage review.
Glossary of Terms
Fair Work Commission
Australia's national workplace relations tribunal. It is an independent body that sets the minimum wage and regulates employment conditions.
Fair Work Ombudsman
An independent statutory agency that provides advice and assistance on workplace rights and obligations, and investigates and resolves workplace complaints.
Modern Award
A legal document that sets out the minimum pay rates and conditions of employment for a specific industry or occupation.