What apprentices should know about pay and rights

Being an apprentice isn’t easy. The pay can feel tight, the hours can be long, and you’re learning on the job, often under pressure. That’s part of starting out in the trade. But working hard and being new doesn’t mean you should be underpaid or treated unfairly. Knowing how your pay works and what you’re entitled to early on makes a real difference.

If you don’t check your pay, no one will do it for you.

Most apprentices in Australia are paid hourly under an award system. Awards set the legal minimum pay rates and conditions for each trade. Some apprentices are paid a weekly wage instead, but even then, that pay should properly account for overtime, allowances and weekend work where they apply.

Your pay rate depends on a few key factors. Your age matters, with adult apprentices generally earning more. Your year level also counts, with rates increasing from first through to fourth year. On top of that, different trades sit under different awards, and some roles are covered by national awards while others fall under state-based agreements.

The bottom line is simple. You should always be paid at least the minimum award rate that applies to your situation.

Award wages, overtime and penalties

The award wage is the legal minimum set by the Fair Work Commission. For many apprentices in construction and related trades, this sits under the Building and Construction General On-site Award. That award spells out base pay by age and year level, along with overtime, penalty rates and allowances like travel or meal payments.

If you’re paid hourly and work more than 38 hours a week, or if you work weekends, public holidays or late nights, you may be entitled to extra pay. A lot of apprentices miss this simply because they never check or feel awkward asking the question. Don’t be. Knowing how your pay works is part of the job.

If you’re on a fixed weekly wage, ask one clear question early on: does this include overtime, weekends and allowances? If the answer is vague or doesn’t line up with the award, it’s worth following up.

“If you don’t understand how you’re being paid, that’s the first thing to fix.”

Adult apprentices and fair pay

If you start your apprenticeship at 21 or older, you’re classed as an adult apprentice. That usually means a higher base rate, and in some cases your previous work experience may also be taken into account.

Adult apprentices shouldn’t be told to expect less just because they’re learning. Fair Work sets adult rates for a reason. Older apprentices often bring reliability, maturity and real-world work habits to the site, and that has value.

 How to check if you’re being paid properly

If something feels off, there are straightforward ways to check. Use official Fair Work tools to confirm your trade, year level, age and hours worked. If the numbers don’t line up, start with a calm conversation with your employer or supervisor. Most decent employers will fix genuine mistakes once they’re pointed out.

If you still feel stuck, Fair Work exists to help workers understand their rights. Using those resources isn’t about causing trouble. It’s about protecting yourself.

 Final word

Award wages are the minimum, not the ceiling. As your skills improve, your confidence grows and your value on site increases, your pay often follows. Knowing your rights helps you start on solid ground, and backing yourself early sets the tone for the rest of your career.

Learn the trade. Learn how the system works. And don’t sell yourself short.