Find out in 60 seconds if your site pay is actually legal.
For site workers, labourers and apprentices who suspect the rate doesn't add up. Checks against the National Minimum Wage — and points you to the award, which is usually higher.
Sound familiar?
- “The cash rate sounded alright until you worked out the hours.”
- “They're docking you for tools, PPE or 'training' and your pay's gone backwards.”
- “You're a casual and not sure the 25% loading is actually in there.”
What this tool does
Checks your effective hourly rate against the National Minimum Wage (and the casual rate). It doesn't work out award rates, penalty rates or allowances — most on-site work is award-covered and pays more, so treat this as the floor, not the target.
Step 1 — Your details
Step 2 — Your hours this week/period
Total countable hours: 0.00
Travel from home to a regular workplace doesn't usually count. Travel between sites during the day does, and the award may pay travel allowances on top.
Step 3 — Your pay
$
$
Include docked pay, tool charges, PPE charges, training clawbacks etc. Don't include tax or super.
Related guides
What the law actually says
- •From 1 July 2025 the National Minimum Wage is $24.95/hr ($31.19/hr for casuals, including the 25% loading). It's the absolute floor for award/agreement-free employees.
- •Most construction work is covered by the Building and Construction General On-site Award (MA000020), where the minimum is higher — plus allowances and penalty rates. Apprentice and junior rates are set by the award.
- •Deductions that push you below the minimum can be unlawful. Free advice: Fair Work Ombudsman on 13 13 94. Guidance only, not legal advice.