The national minimum wage is currently $19.49 per hour or $740.80 per 38 hour week (before tax, as of July 1, 2019). Casual employees covered by the national minimum wage also get at least a 25 per cent casual loading. There are different pay entitlements for juniors, apprentices and trainees.
Junior pay rates - under 21 years of age
Juniors get paid a percentage of the relevant adult pay rate unless:
the award, enterprise agreement or other registered agreement doesn't have junior rates, or
they have completed an apprenticeship and are trade qualified.
Apprentice pay rates
An employee can only be paid apprentice pay rates if they have a formal training contract with their employer. The training has to be registered and recognised by a state or territory training authority. These employees do their training through a Registered Training Organisation such as a TAFE. Apprentice pay rates will depend on the length of the apprenticeship and how much training the apprentice has done.
Trainee pay rates
Most trainees get their pay and conditions related to their training from Schedule E in the Miscellaneous Award 2010. They get other entitlements (penalty rates, overtime and allowances) from the industry or occupation award that covers them. Some trainees get their pay rates from their industry or occupation award.
Employees with disability pay rates
The Supported Wage System (SWS) applies to employees with disability who have a reduced work capacity. The Department of Social Services gives out information and advice about who is eligible for the SWS. It also accepts applications for the SWS and can deal with disputes.
For more information
If a role is covered by an award, you can find the appropriate minimum pay rates by using the Fair Work Ombudsman’s PACT (Pay And Conditions Tool). For other industries and more information, visit the Fair Work Ombudsman website.