Minimum wage in Australia for casual and part time workers how to check your pay is one of those things that many students don’t think about until they realize they might be underpaid. I didn’t check my pay properly at first, and I later realized I should have been paid more. The information online was legal and hard to understand. I needed simple information about what I should be paid and how to check it.
Three years later, I’m finishing my Master’s at the University of Melbourne. I’ve learned to check my pay and understand minimum wage, and I’ve helped friends do the same. Some were being underpaid. Others were paid correctly. The difference was knowing how to check and what to look for.
So here’s everything I know about minimum wage in Australia for casual and part time workers, based on what actually applies.
What Is Minimum Wage Actually?
Let me start with this, because understanding what it is helps you check your pay.
Minimum wage is the lowest amount employers can legally pay you. It’s set by the Fair Work Commission and varies by age and award.
For adults 21 and over: minimum wage is usually around $23.23 per hour (as of 2024, check current rates).
For younger workers: minimum wage is lower. It increases as you get older until you reach 21.
But here’s what I’ve learned: minimum wage is your right. Don’t accept less. Check your award rate, and make sure you’re paid at least minimum wage.
Casual vs Part Time: Different Rates
This is important, because rates differ by employment type.
Casual workers usually get: base rate plus 25% casual loading. This means casual workers usually earn more per hour than permanent workers.
Part time workers get: base rate only, but they get benefits like annual leave and sick leave.
But here’s what I’ve learned: casual loading compensates for lack of benefits. Casual workers earn more per hour, but they don’t get benefits. Part time workers earn less per hour, but they get benefits.
I’ve written about casual vs part time vs full time employment if you want more detail.
How to Check Your Pay: The Practical Guide
This is the practical part, and here’s how to do it.
Check your payslip: your payslip should show your hourly rate, hours worked, and total pay. Check that your hourly rate is at least minimum wage.
Know your award: different industries have different awards with different minimum rates. Know which award applies to your job.
Check penalty rates: if you work weekends, evenings, or public holidays, you should get penalty rates. Check that these are included.
But here’s what I’ve learned: checking your pay takes effort, but it’s important. Don’t assume you’re paid correctly. Check your payslip, know your award, and verify penalty rates. It protects you.
I’ve written about how to read and understand your payslip if you want more detail.
What to Do If You’re Underpaid
This is important, because knowing what to do helps you take action.
Speak to your employer first: sometimes it’s a mistake. Contact your employer and explain the issue. Many employers fix mistakes quickly.
If they don’t fix it: contact Fair Work. Fair Work can help you recover underpaid wages and ensure you’re paid correctly.
Keep records: keep your payslips and records of hours worked. This helps if you need to make a claim.
But here’s what I’ve learned: underpayment is serious, but many employers fix mistakes when pointed out. Speak to your employer first, but don’t be afraid to contact Fair Work if needed.
I’ve written about what to do if your employer underpays you if you want more detail.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know what my minimum wage is?
Check your award. Different industries have different awards with different minimum rates. Use the Fair Work website to find your award and rate.
What if I’m paid less than minimum wage?
Speak to your employer first. If they don’t fix it, contact Fair Work. You have the right to minimum wage, and you should be paid correctly.
Do casual workers get more?
Usually yes. Casual workers usually get base rate plus 25% casual loading. This compensates for lack of benefits.
How do I check penalty rates?
Check your award. Penalty rates vary by award and time worked. Your payslip should show penalty rates if you worked penalty times.
What if my payslip is confusing?
Ask your employer to explain it. Payslips can be confusing, but your employer should explain them. Don’t be afraid to ask.
Should I check my pay regularly?
Yes. Check every payslip. Don’t assume you’re paid correctly. Regular checks protect you from underpayment.
Final Thoughts
Minimum wage in Australia for casual and part time workers is your right. Check your payslip regularly, know your award rate, and verify penalty rates. Don’t assume you’re paid correctly. Check it, and take action if you’re underpaid.
Don’t accept less than minimum wage. Know what you should be paid, check your payslip, and speak up if something’s wrong. Your rights matter, and you should be paid correctly.
I’ve made plenty of mistakes since landing in Melbourne, but each one taught me something. The biggest lesson? Check your pay. Don’t assume you’re paid correctly. Check your payslip regularly, know your award rate, and verify penalty rates. It protects you from underpayment.
If you’re still checking your pay, use the Fair Work website to find your award and rate. Check your payslip regularly, and don’t be afraid to ask questions. Your rights matter, and you should be paid correctly.
