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].
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