Penalty Rates Calculator
Calculate your take-home pay for penalty rate shifts under Fair Work Australia
Under the Fair Work Act, weekend and public holiday work is paid at a higher rate than ordinary time. Sunday rates are typically 150–200% of base pay, and public holidays 225–250%, depending on your award or enterprise agreement. Source: Fair Work Commission, 2025–26.
Penalty rate150%
Ordinary pay$200.00
Penalty loading$100.00
Total pay$300.00
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are penalty rates in Australia?
Penalty rates are higher pay rates that apply when employees work outside ordinary hours — such as weekends, public holidays, and overtime. They are set by Modern Awards under the Fair Work Act 2009.
What is the penalty rate for working on a Sunday?
For most awards covering retail and hospitality workers, the Sunday penalty rate is 150% for full-time/part-time employees and 175% for casual employees.
What is the public holiday penalty rate?
The standard public holiday penalty rate is 225% for full-time and part-time employees, and 250% for casuals.
Do casual employees get penalty rates?
Yes. Casual employees receive all standard penalty rates plus their 25% casual loading on top.
What is the overtime penalty rate?
Under most awards, overtime is paid at 150% for the first 2 hours and 200% (double time) after that.