Social, Community, Home Care and Disability Services Industry Award

Stage 1	Stage 2
If the percentage increase for a specific classification level exceeds 3%, half of the total increase was implemented on 1 January 2025	The remaining percentage takes effect on 1 October 2025
If the percentage increase for a specific classification level exceeds 3%, but half of the total increase amounts to less than 3%, a 3% increase was applied on 1 January 2025	The remaining percentage will be implemented on 1 October 2025
If the percentage increase for a specific classification level is less than 3%, the full increase was applied on 1 January 2025	No additional increase will occur on 1 October 2025

Modern Awards

Navigating the Miscellaneous Award [MA000104]: An Essential Guide for Employers and Employees

In this guide we discuss some of the key provisions of the Miscellaneous Award including what sorts of businesses it covers, the different levels of employee classifications, pay rates, and employee entitlements. If you’re a business owner in Australia, it's imperative you understand the basics and note the changes to the Award in 2025 and their implications for various roles. Peninsula has helped thousands of businesses in this sector, and we offer tailored solutions to meet your needs. If you require any support or assistance, feel free to contact Peninsula today. Scope and significance of the miscellaneous award: The Miscellaneous Award 2020, updated in 2025, plays a pivotal role in setting employment standards across a range of occupations not covered by other industry-specific or occupational awards. This award is a key instrument in safeguarding fair work practices for a diverse workforce. Coverage The Miscellaneous Award covers employers and employees who fit within the award's classifications. The Miscellaneous Award also covers labour hire businesses and their employees who fit within the classifications of the award, if the employer is not covered by another award with a more appropriate classification. The award does not cover managerial employees and professional employees such as accountants and finance, marketing, legal, human resources, public relations and information technology specialists. Understanding coverage of the award may be tricky, that’s why we offer factsheets and summaries outlining coverage and pay rates. These factsheets and resources are customised for your business and your employees. If you need any help in understanding whether a role falls under the Miscellaneous Award, please contact us today. Minimum Wage 2025 Each year, the Fair Work Commission reviews both the National Minimum Wage and the minimum pay rates under awards (annual wage review). Most changes begin on the first full pay period on or after 1 July. The National Minimum Wage applies to employees not covered by an award or registered agreement. This is the minimum pay rate provided by the Fair Work Act 2009 and is reviewed each year. As of 1 July 2025, the National Minimum Wage is $24.95 per hour or $948 per week. Some awards contain introductory pay rates for new employees in their industry. These rates generally apply for a limited time until an employee progresses to their next level. These introductory rates may be less than the National Minimum Wage. Extended analysis of pay rates in the miscellaneous award The Miscellaneous Award offers a detailed structure for pay rates, which varies based on factors like age and employment type (full-time, part-time, and casual). This extended analysis provides a clearer understanding of how these rates apply to junior workers, adults, and different employment statuses. The minimum rates of pay are set out in Clause 15 of the Award. 1. Pay Rates for Junior Workers (Aged Under 16 to 20): Age Pay Rate Under-16-Year-Olds: Usually recieve the lowest pay rate, reflecting entry-level skills and higher supervision needs. 16-Year-Olds: Typically receive a percentage of the adult pay rate, reflecting their initial entry into the workforce. 17-Year-Olds: A slight increase from the 16-year-old rate, acknowledging a year's worth of experience and development. 18-Year-Olds: The pay rate for 18-year-olds is often set higher than for 16 and 17-year-olds, balancing their growing experience with their junior status. 19-Year-Olds: As they approach adulthood, 19-year-olds typically see a significant increase in their pay rate, closer to the full adult wage. 20-Year-Olds: At 20, the pay rate usually reaches near the full adult pay rate, in anticipation of reaching adulthood. 2. Adult Pay Rates: Adult Employment Type Pay Rate Full-Time/Part-Time Adults: Adult workers (usually those 21 and over) are entitled to the full adult pay rate as specified in the award. This rate reflects the standard compensation for the role without age-based scaling. Casual Adults Casual adult workers receive the adult base rate plus casual loading (typically around 25%) to compensate for the lack of benefits like paid leave. 3. Employment Type Variations: Employment Type Pay Rate Full-Time Workers Receive a consistent hourly rate alongside benefits such as annual leave and sick leave. Full-time rates are generally standard as per the role's classification in the award. Part-Time Workers Part-time workers earn the same hourly rate as full-time employees but on a pro-rata basis, depending on their hours worked. Casual Workers Casual workers across all age groups are eligible for casual loading on top of the base hourly rate. This higher rate compensates for the absence of certain full-time benefits and job security. Staying updated with the miscellaneous award: Understanding these pay rates is essential for ensuring compliance with the Miscellaneous Award. Employers must be diligent in applying these rates correctly, while employees, especially those who are younger, should be aware of their entitlements under the award. How Peninsula can help your business The legislation around awards and pay rates is complex and keeps on changing. As a business owner, you have a lot on your plate, and this is just another additional responsibility. You can rely on us instead. We have a team of experienced members who understand the nuances and technicalities of awards and pay rates for your industry. Our team will guide you through each step of the way. We have resources, factsheets, templates, policies, and software available for clients and customers. Contact Peninsula today for personalised support on the Miscellaneous Award [MA000104].

Modern Awards

The Complete Guide to Pharmacy Award [MA000012]

The Pharmacy Award [MA000012] is a complex award with regulations that govern the significant pharmacy industry in Australia. We know how time poor small businesses can be with the many responsibilities and obligations they need to juggle. That’s why we have put together this comprehensive guide outlining essential updates to the Pharmacy Award. This guide is dedicated to helping you understand the Pharmacy Award, focusing on the rates for 2025. It covers various aspects, including the general Pharmacy Award rate, specific pay rates for pharmacy assistants across different levels, and the overall framework set by the Pharmacy Guild. If you're a small business owner and need help in understanding which award your business falls under, call our free initial advice line for employers today. Pharmacy Award The Pharmacy Award provides a structured framework for wages and conditions within the pharmacy sector. It sets out the standards for fair compensation, working hours, and other employment conditions, playing a vital role in ensuring a balanced and equitable workplace. Coverage The Pharmacy Award covers business owners and employers in the community pharmacy industry and their employees who fit within its classifications. A community pharmacy means any business that: Is registered under the relevant state or territory legislation for a regulation as a pharmacy or is located in a state or territory where there is no legislation that regulates pharmacies. Compounds or dispenses prescriptions or sells medicines or drugs (which may be alongside other retail goods). Examples of employees covered by the Pharmacy Award include: Pharmacists Pharmacy students and interns Pharmacy assistants including dispensary assistants Shop assistants working in a community pharmacy. The Pharmacy Award also covers labour hire businesses and their employers who are placed within an organisation in the community pharmacy industry. The Pharmacy Award doesn’t cover: Nurses Beauticians Pharmacy employees of the pharmacies listed below that don’t sell goods and services to the public The following employers are not covered by the Pharmacy Award: Pharmacies owned by a hospital or public institution Pharmacies operated by the government that don’t sell their goods and services to the public Minimum Wage 2025 Each year, the Fair Work Commission reviews both the National Minimum Wage and the minimum pay rates under awards (annual wage review). Most changes begin from the first full pay period on or after 1 July. The National Minimum Wage applies to employees not covered by an award or registered agreement. This is the minimum pay rate provided by the Fair Work Act 2009 and is reviewed each year. As of 1 July 2025, the National Minimum Wage is $24.95 per hour or $948 per week. Some awards contain introductory pay rates for new employees in their industry. These rates generally apply for a limited time until an employee progresses to their next level. These introductory rates may be less than the National Minimum Wage. 2025 updates to the pharmacy award rates The Pharmacy Award underwent updates to reflect changes in the economic environment and sector-specific needs. These updates are essential for keeping the award relevant and fair. Key components of the pharmacy award rate: 1. Pharmacy Award Rate Overview: The Pharmacy Award rate outlines the minimum wage and conditions for employees working in the pharmacy sector, including pharmacists, pharmacy assistants, and other related roles. 2. Pharmacy Assistant Award Rates: The award specifies different pay rates for pharmacy assistants based on their level of experience, qualifications and responsibility. Level 1: Entry-level assistants, typically new to the industry. Level 2: More experienced assistants who have developed a broader skill set. Level 3: Senior assistants who manage more complex tasks and may have supervisory responsibilities. 3. Pharmacy Guild Pay Rates: The Pharmacy Guild often provides additional guidance on pay rates and industry standards, supplementing the official award rates. Understanding and adhering to the Pharmacy Award is crucial for maintaining a fair and compliant workplace. Employers must ensure they are up to date with the latest award rates and conditions, while employees should be aware of their rights and entitlements. Looking for assistance with pharmacy award rates? For those seeking guidance on the Pharmacy Award rates or needing assistance on navigating the complexities of the award, our team of experts is here to help. If you're a pharmacy business owner, we can provide you with tailored advice and solutions. Contact Peninsula today for expert assistance to ensure your business is aligned with the 2025 standards.

Modern Awards

Fast Food Industry Award [MA000003] Rates

In Australia's dynamic fast-food sector, comprehending the Fast Food Industry Award [MA000003] rates is vital for businesses and employees. This guide focuses on the Fast Food Industry Award, including the 2025 pay guide and the minimum wage standards. It aims to provide clarity and insight into the award rates, ensuring compliance and fairness in this bustling industry. You can also read our guides on the Hospitality Industry Award and the Restaurant Industry Award if you’re unsure which award your business falls under. Fast food industry award The Fast Food Industry Award sets the baseline for wages and conditions for employees working in fast food establishments. This Award is crucial in outlining fair pay, work conditions, and entitlements, forming a foundation for equitable employer-employee relationships in the industry. Coverage The fast food industry includes taking orders for, preparing, selling, and delivering fast food, mainly take away. Fast foods are meals, snacks, and beverages: To be consumed away from the point of sale Packaged in a way that customers can choose to take them somewhere else to consume Sold in food courts, shopping centres, and retail complexes Prepared and sold by the business and delivered by a third party Examples of employees covered by Fast Food Award include: Employees taking orders (including via an app), cooking and selling fast food Baristas (in fast food shops or take-away cafes) Delivery drivers Supervisors of these employees Employees in charge of a fast food/take-away shop or outlet Cafes where the main food or drink is sold (and packaged) for take-away The Fast Food Award also covers labour hire businesses and their employees who are placed within an organisation in the fast food industry. The Fast Food Award does not cover cafes, restaurants, coffee shops, or bars where the business mainly sells food and beverages to be consumed on the premises and/or offers sit-down and table service. The Fast Food Award doesn’t cover employers and employees when they are covered by one of the following awards: Restaurant Award Hospitality Award Retail Award The Fast Food Award also doesn’t cover employees who are delivering goods prepared by a fast food business and aren’t directly employed by them. Minimum Wage 2025 Each year, the Fair Work Commission reviews both the National Minimum Wage and the minimum pay rates under awards (annual wage review). Most changes begin on the first full pay period on or after 1 July. The National Minimum Wage applies to employees not covered by an award or registered agreement. This is the minimum pay rate provided by the Fair Work Act 2009 and is reviewed each year. As of 1 July 2025, the National Minimum Wage is $24.95 per hour or $948 per week. Some awards contain introductory pay rates for new employees in their industry. These rates generally apply for a limited time until an employee progresses to their next level. These introductory rates may be less than the National Minimum Wage. 2025 fast food industry award pay guide: Key aspects employers and employees need to know: The 2025 update of the Fast Food Industry Award Pay Guide introduces important changes reflecting the industry's current economic climate. Here's a breakdown of what these changes entail: 1. Award Rate Adjustments: The 2025 update sees adjustments in the pay rates across various job levels in the fast-food sector, ensuring wages keep pace with economic changes and cost of living adjustments. 2. Minimum Wage in the Fast Food Industry: One of the central aspects of the Award is the minimum wage rate. This rate sets the lowest legal payment employers can offer, ensuring all employees receive fair compensation for their work. 3. Age-Based Wage Scaling: Like other industry awards, the Fast Food Award includes provisions for age-based wage scaling. This means younger workers, typically under 21, may receive a different pay rate than their older counterparts. 4. Casual Loading and Penalty Rates: The Award outlines specific rates for casual employees, including casual loading, which compensates for the lack of certain benefits like leave entitlements. Additionally, penalty rates for working on weekends, public holidays, or outside normal hours are detailed in the Award. 5. Fast Food Award Pay Levels: The Award categorises employees into different levels based on their role, responsibilities, and experience. Each level has a specific pay rate, with Level 1 employees undertaking day-to-day duties working under supervision. Adhering to the Fast Food Industry Award rates is not only a legal requirement but also a commitment to fair and ethical business practices. Employers must ensure they are up to date with the latest Award rates and conditions to remain compliant. Similarly, employees should be aware of their entitlements under the Award to ensure they receive fair compensation. Are you a fast food business owner in Australia? Businesses that don’t have specialised resources or members working on human resources and payroll can end up underpaying their employees and face severe penalties. If hiring a specialised full-time employee is exhausting your financial resources, you can simplify your life and let Peninsula handle your employment relations and work health and safety issues. All our clients are small business owners who come to us for advice on complicated pay rates, awards, overtime, and staffing challenges, so they focus on growing their business. Our diverse team consists of employment relations professionals, work health and safety advisors, and support staff dedicated to solving all your problems around staffing, pay rates, and health and safety in the fast food industry. Contact Peninsula today to learn about awards and pay rates.

Modern Awards

An In-Depth Guide to the Restaurant Industry Award [MA000119]

Awards and award rates were developed by the Federal Government in Australia to emsure fair pay to workers in different industries. The award system ensures every industry is regulated, and workers are compensated accordingly. These awards set out wages, allowances, overtime, shift breaks, and public holiday rates for various industries including the restaurant industry. It’s very easy for small business owners to get tripped up, resulting in underpayments or errors. Sometimes it can also be confusing for restaurant owners to know whether their employees fall under the Restaurant Industry Award [MA000119], the Fast Food Industry Award or the Hospitality Industry Award. Peninsula has worked with thousands of restaurant owners in Australia and supported them in understanding staff classification, pay rates, and allowances. In this guide, we breakdown the coverage of the Restaurant Industry Award, pay rates, and the difference between Restaurant and Hospitality Award. If you need help with paying your staff accurately, contact Peninsula today. Coverage The Restaurant Industry Award forms the backbone of wage and condition standards in the restaurant sector. It encompasses roles ranging from entry-level to highly skilled positions, ensuring workers are fairly compensated for their efforts and skills. The restaurant industry means: Businesses that sell food and beverages to be consumed on the premises Restaurants, catering by a restaurant Cafes, where a business sells food and beverages to be consumed on the premises and/or offers table service Reception centers Tea rooms Night clubs Roadhouses providing a sit-down service (if they are run as a separate business to a petrol station) Examples of employees covered by the Restaurant Industry Award include: Waiters and waitresses Chefs, apprentice chefs, cooks, and Kitchen hands Baristas in eat-in cafes Clerical and office employees Security and storeroom employees Handypersons The Restaurant Industry Award also covers labour hire businesses and their employees who are placed with an organisation in the restaurant industry. Minimum Wage 2025 Each year, the Fair Work Commission reviews both the National Minimum Wage and the minimum pay rates under awards (annual wage review). Most changes begin on the first full pay period on or after 1 July. The National Minimum Wage applies to employees not covered by an award or registered agreement. This is the minimum pay rate provided by the Fair Work Act 2009 and is reviewed each year. As of 1 July 2025, the National Minimum Wage is $24.95 per hour or $948 per week. Some awards contain introductory pay rates for new employees in their industry. These rates generally apply for a limited time until an employee progresses to their next level. These introductory rates may be less than the National Minimum Wage. Restaurant industry award 2025 pay rates The Restaurant Industry Award 2025 categorises pay rates by job level, employment type (full-time, part-time, and casual), and includes specific provisions for penalty rates. Here’s an expanded look at these rates, providing insights into the hourly wages across different levels and employment types. 1. Chef Pay Rates by Level: Level 6 Chef (Senior Roles): Employment Type Pay Rate Full-Time/Part-Time: The hourly rate for a Level 6 chef reflects their advanced skills and leadership roles. For example, the rate could be around $30.68 per hour. Casual: Including casual loading (usually an additional 25%), the rate might increase to approximately $38.35 per hour. Level 4 and 5 Chef (Mid-Level Roles): Employment Type Pay Rate Full-Time/Part-Time: Mid-level chefs can expect an hourly rate in the range of $28.12 to $29.88, depending on their exact level and experience. Casual: With casual loading, this rate could increase to around $35.15 to $37.35 per hour. 2. Kitchen Hand and Entry-Level Staff Pay Rates: Employment Type Pay Rate Full-Time/Part-Time: Entry-level positions like kitchen hands might have hourly rates starting from $24.95. Casual: Including casual loading, their rate could be around $31.19 per hour. 3. Café Staff Pay Rates: Baristas and Wait Staff: Employment Type Pay Rate Full-Time/Part-Time: Depending on experience, hourly rates can range from $25.85 to $26.70 Casual: With loading, these rates might range from $32.31 to $33.38. 4. Penalty Rates: Employment Type Pay Rate Weekend Work Employees working on weekends may receive higher rates, for example time and a half but this depends on the day and award stipulations. Night Shifts: Additional pay rates apply for night shifts, typically after a specific hour in the evening until early morning. 5. Full-Time vs. Part-Time vs. Casual: Employment Type Pay Rate Full-Time Employees receive a steady hourly rate with benefits such as annual leave and sick leave. Part-Time Similar hourly rates to full-time staff but with pro-rata benefits based on their hours worked. Casual: Higher hourly rates due to casual loading which compensates for the lack of certain benefits. Selecting the right award Sometimes you may not know the exact award your business falls under. Restaurant owners can get confused between the Fast Food Industry Award and the Hospitality Industry Award. To simplify things for you, if you run a standalone restaurant, you fall under the Restaurant Industry Award. If your restaurant is connected to a hotel, you’re covered by the Hospitality Industry Award. For further information on the Hospitality Industry Award, you can check out our comprehensive guide containing coverage, pay rates, and entitlements. If you need to know more about the Fast Food Industry Award, read our exclusive guide for employers and business owners. Understanding award coverage and pay rates is crucial for both employers to ensure compliance and for employees to be aware of their entitlements. The 2025 updates to the Restaurant Industry Award aim to maintain fairness and competitiveness in the industry. Expert assistance for understanding pay rates In the past, many businesses used manual methods to calculate pay rates and penalties. This can lead to errors and miscalculations. According to recent research, over one in five Australians were underpaid. The biggest reason for underpayment is businesses are just struggling to keep up with an increasingly complex and layered system. That’s why we created Peninsula, to help support small businesses which form the backbone of the country. Our aim is to offer tailored solutions for your employment needs, from hiring, induction, onboarding, performance management, awards, pay rates, penalties, leave allowances, and work health and safety, to termination. As a Peninsula client, you get access to the latest news, updates, software, tools, and resources for all things employment related. We help businesses in all business sectors, including the restaurant industry, and are very familiar with the pay rates and awards. Contact Peninsula today to get all the latest information.

Modern Awards

Hospitality Industry Award [MA000009]: Essential Insights for Employers in Australia

The Australian hospitality industry employs thousands of people across the country. There are multiple regulations and laws governing this industry sector and it can be challenging for small businesses to keep up with the changes. To help simplify the complex award rates, we have created this essential guide for hospitality business owners. Hospitality Award The Hospitality Industry (General) Award 2020 [MA000009], is set by the Fair Work Commission, and delivers essential standards for employee compensation. This guide highlights the 2025 updates on entitlements and pay rates. If you need further help or support, contact Peninsula today. Originally introduced by the Australian Industrial Relations Commission, the modern Hospitality Award serves as a cornerstone for fair employee compensation in various hospitality roles. Coverage The hospitality industry covers employers and their employees who fit within the classifications of the award. The hospitality industry means: Tourist or residential accommodation including resorts, motels, hotels, serviced apartments, and caravan parks Holiday apartment complexes Wine bars, saloons, and taverns Casinos Caterers Nightclubs, function centres, convention facilities and restaurants connected with an employer covered by the Hospitality Award (e.g. hotel restaurant) Examples of employees covered by the Hospitality Award include: Waiter and waitress Chefs, apprentice chefs, cooks, kitchen hands Catering employees working for a catering business Housekeepers, doorpersons and concierge staff Front office, clerical, and reception staff Managerial staff who are not senior management Leisure attendants Security officers and storepersons Casino staff, including gaming staff, equipment technicians, security and finance officers Gaming attendants Pub owners Maintenance and gardening staff. The Hospitality Award also covers labour hire businesses and their employees who are placed within an organisation in the hospitality industry. It is important you don’t get confused between the Hospitality Award, the Fast Food Industry Award, and the Restaurant Industry Award. If you feel your business falls under either of these awards read our guides for more information. 2025 Hospitality Award Rates – What employers need to know The latest update present a structure of pay rates that consider factors like age, job role, and working hours. It's essential for employers to grasp these details to ensure compliance and uphold equitable workplace practices. These updates reflect the adjustments in the cost of living and the hospitality industry’s desperate demand for skilled labour. Minimum wage 2025 Each year, the Fair Work Commission reviews both the National Minimum Wage and the minimum pay rates under awards (annual wage review). Most changes begin on the first full pay period on or after 1 July. The National Minimum Wage applies to employees not covered by an award or registered agreement. This is the minimum pay rate provided by the Fair Work Act 2009 and is reviewed each year. On 1 July 2025, the National Minimum Wage increased to $24.95 per hour or $948 per week. Some awards contain introductory pay rates for new employees in their industry. These rates generally apply for a limited time until an employee progresses to their next level. These introductory rates may be less than the National Minimum Wage. Detailed rate analysis by age and role: Enhancing understanding for employers In the hospitality sector, the complexities of award rates can be daunting. It's crucial for employers to understand not just the basic hourly rates, but also how these rates vary depending on the shift, position, and penalty rates. Here’s an extended breakdown: Introductory and Youth Rates: Role Pay Rate Under 17 in non-office roles The base hourly rate starts at $12.14, with increments for late hours and weekends. Under 16 in office roles This rate begins at $10.93 and adjusts similarly for unsocial hours. Level-Based Rate Structure: Level Pay Rate Level 1 (e.g., Food and Beverage Attendant Grade 1) The base rate for under 17 years is $12.48, increasing for evening shifts and weekends. Level 2 (e.g., Cook Grade 1) Starting at $12.93 for under 17 years, with additional pay for night shifts and weekend work. Level 3 (e.g., Guest Service Grade 3) For under 17 years, the hourly rate is $13.35, with higher rates for unsocial hours. Level 4 and 5 Roles These higher levels, including supervisory positions, see a commensurate increase in base pay. For example, a Level 5 Food and Beverage Supervisor under 17 years starts at $14.94 per hour. Rates for 18 to 20-Year-Olds: Level Pay Rate Level 1 Roles for 18-Year-Olds The base rate is around $17.47 per hour, increasing for weekend shifts. Level 2 and Above For example, a Cook Grade 1 at 18 years starts at approximately $18.10 per hour, with higher rates for late hours and weekends. Rates progressively increase with each year of age. Shift Variations and Penalty Rates: Shift Type Pay Rate Weekday Evenings (7pm to Midnight) There’s an additional $2.81 per hour on top of the base rate. Night Shift (Midnight to 7am) This shift attracts an extra $4.22 per hour on top of the base rate. Saturday Work Rates are enhanced to 125% of the base rate. Sunday Shifts These attract the highest premiums; the same Level 1 employee would earn 150% of their base rate. Adult Rates (21 Years and Above): Adult workers generally receive higher base rates, reflecting their experience. For example, a Level 1 adult worker might start at a base rate higher than younger counterparts. Evening, night shifts, and weekend work attract additional pay. An adult in a Level 1 role working a Sunday shift could earn significantly more than the base rate. Understanding these detailed aspects of the Hospitality Award rates is not just about compliance but also about recognising and valuing the diverse roles and contributions of employees in the hospitality sector. Employers need to be adept at navigating these complexities to ensure a fair and motivating work environment. Analysis for casual employees by age and role in the hospitality industry In the hospitality sector, casual employees have distinct award rates that reflect the flexible nature of their employment. Here's a breakdown focusing on casual employees, including variations based on age and role: Casual Loading: Casual employees receive a higher base hourly rate due to 'casual loading,' which compensates for the lack of benefits like paid leave and job security. This loading is typically an additional percentage on top of the base rate. Rates for Younger Casual Employees (Under 18 Years): Introductory and Level 1 Roles: For example, a casual food and beverage attendant under 17 might start at a base rate of $12.14 per hour, plus a casual loading (often 25%), making it approximately $15.18 per hour. Evening and Weekend Penalties: These rates increase during evening and weekend shifts. For instance, the same employee might earn more on a Sunday due to additional penalty rates. Rates for 18 to 21-Year-Old Casuals: Level 1 to Level 5 Roles: As age and experience increase, so do the base rates. An 18-year-old casual employee in a Level 1 role could start at around $16.26 per hour plus casual loading, with higher rates for late hours and weekends. Shift Penalties: The pay rates for evening, night, and weekend work are higher, with the penatly applied on the ordinary hourly rate. Adult Casual Rates (21 Years and Above): Adult casual workers generally receive the highest base rates. A Level 1 adult casual employee's base rate will be higher than that of younger employees, plus the casual loading. Penalty Rates for Adults: Adult casual workers also benefit from increased pay for unsocial hours, with the highest premiums typically paid for Sunday shifts. Variations Across Roles: Different roles within the hospitality industry have distinct base rates for casual employees. For example, skilled roles like chefs may have higher base rates compared to entry-level positions. Compliance for Employers: It's imperative for employers to adhere to the correct award rates to remain compliant with Australian labour laws and to value the contribution of casual employees fairly. Understanding casual employee rates in various roles and age groups is vital for employers in the hospitality sector to ensure fair compensation for all employees. Get help for your hospitality business today If you’re concerned or confused about pay rates or penalties in your hospitality business, then it’s time to reach out to the experts. Peninsula has worked with hundreds of hospitality businesses and employers in Australia and helped them understand pay rates, penalties, and employment contracts. Our team of dedicated members is always available to answer your questions, offer you resources and training, and support you every step of the way. From hiring to firing, we have resources for every stage of the employee lifecycle. Contact Peninsula today to get your questions answered.

Understanding the SCHADS Award

What is the SCHADS Award?

SHADS Award Coverage

2025 SCHADS Award Update – What You Need to Know

The SCHADS wage increases are in two stages

SCHADS Award Pay Rates by Level

SCHADS Overtime Pay Rates

SCHADS Award Salary Details

Disability Support Workers under SCHADS

SCHADS Award in Different States

Minimum Wage 2025

Major Updates in the SCHADS Award Clauses

Implications of the SCHADS changes

Get expert advice for your SCHADS business

Have a question?

Related Guides

Navigating the Miscellaneous Award [MA000104]: An Essential Guide for Employers and Employees

The Complete Guide to Pharmacy Award [MA000012]

Fast Food Industry Award [MA000003] Rates

An In-Depth Guide to the Restaurant Industry Award [MA000119]

Hospitality Industry Award [MA000009]: Essential Insights for Employers in Australia

Related Guides

Navigating the Miscellaneous Award [MA000104]: An Essential Guide for Employers and Employees

The Complete Guide to Pharmacy Award [MA000012]

Fast Food Industry Award [MA000003] Rates

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