Pay and Your Rights as an Apprentice
Being an apprentice is no walk in the park. The pay isn’t amazing, the days can be long, and you’re constantly learning (and making mistakes) under pressure. But you’ve already accepted the challenge — and that’s something to be proud of.
Still, just because you’re doing the hard yards doesn’t mean you should be underpaid or taken advantage of. Knowing your rights and pay entitlements as an apprentice is essential — not just for your wallet, but to make sure you’re being treated fairly.
Understanding Apprentice Pay
Most apprentices in Australia are paid hourly wages under an award rate system, which sets minimum standards for pay and conditions in each industry. Some apprentices may be on fixed salaries, but even then, those salaries should reflect overtime, allowances, and weekend work.
Apprentice wages vary depending on:
✅ Your age (adult apprentices generally earn more)
✅ Your year of training (1st, 2nd, 3rd, or 4th year)
✅ Your trade type (not all trades are classified the same)
✅ Whether your trade is part of a national award or a specific state-based agreement
In short, you should be getting at least the minimum award wage for your specific situation.
What Is the Award Wage?
The award wage is a legal minimum rate set by the Fair Work Commission. It ensures apprentices (and employees in general) aren’t underpaid.
For most apprentices in construction and related trades, the relevant award is:
🔗 Building and Construction General On-site Award (MA000020)
From that link, you can:
✅ Find your pay rate by year and age
✅ Check overtime and penalty rates
✅ Understand your entitlements like breaks, travel allowances, and more
If your trade isn’t covered by that award, there may be another relevant one — or you may need to check with your employer or Fair Work directly.
Overtime, Penalty Rates & Weekends
If you’re paid hourly and:
Work over 38 hours per week, or
Work weekends, public holidays, or late nights
…you may be entitled to extra pay under penalty or overtime rates.
But here’s the rub: some apprentices miss out on this simply because they don’t check or they’re too nervous to ask. Don’t be that apprentice. Ask your employer what your rates are and clarify how you’re being paid.
If you're on a fixed weekly wage, ask: "Is this inclusive of overtime, weekends, and allowances?" If the answer isn't clear — or doesn't match the Fair Work guide — it's worth a follow-up.
Adult Apprentices vs. Junior Apprentices
If you’re 21 or older when you start your apprenticeship, you’re classed as an adult apprentice.
That means:
You’re generally entitled to higher base pay
Your rate may also reflect prior experience or related work history
Don’t let anyone tell you that adult apprentices “should expect less.” Fair Work has set rates for a reason — and adult apprentices bring a lot to the table.
How to Check If You’re Being Paid Fairly
✅ Visit Fair Work Ombudsman – Pay and Conditions Tool
✅ Download the Fair Pay Guide
✅ Cross-check:
Your trade type
Your year level (1st–4th)
Your age
Your hours and type of work (e.g. overtime, travel, public holidays)
If something looks off, have a calm chat with your employer or supervisor. Most decent employers will fix an issue once it’s flagged.
If you still feel stuck, contact Fair Work directly — they’re there to help you, not make trouble.
Real Talk: Minimum Pay Is Just the Starting Point
The award wage is the legal minimum — not the maximum. Your actual pay might be higher depending on:
The trade you’re in
How competent you are on the tools
Your attitude and how reliable you are
Whether your boss values you enough to reward it
So yes — know your rights. But also remember, if you show up, work hard, and improve quickly, you’ll often earn more than the minimum over time.
