- National minimum wage: $26.44 an hour ($1,004.90 a week) from 1 July 2026
- Casual workers: usually get a 25% casual loading on top of the base rate
- Farm work (Horticulture Award, casual Level 1): $32.18 an hour, also the minimum for piece rate pickers
- Award rates: rose 4.75% from the first full pay period on or after 1 July 2026
Last checked: 25 October 2026
Working holiday makers must be paid the same minimum rates as Australian workers. Most jobs are covered by an “award” that sets the minimum rate for that industry and level. Weekend, public holiday, early morning and late night work often pays more (penalty rates).
Typical minimum casual rates (from 1 July 2026)
| Job | Award | Minimum casual rate (weekday) |
|---|---|---|
| Fruit picker, packer, farm hand | Horticulture Award, Level 1 | $32.18 an hour |
| Bar, waiting, kitchen hand, housekeeping | Hospitality Award, Levels 1 to 3 | About $32.70 to $35.00 an hour |
| Any adult job with no award | National minimum wage plus 25% casual loading | About $33.05 an hour |
Hospitality rates are worked out from the 2025 award rates plus the 4.75% increase, so treat them as a guide and use the Fair Work Pay Calculator for your exact rate.
Piece rates
On farms you may be paid per bin, bucket or kilo. Under the Horticulture Award, piece rate workers must still earn at least the casual hourly rate for every hour worked. If your piece rate earns more, you get the higher amount. Your employer must record your hours.
Payslips and super
- You must get a payslip within one working day of being paid.
- Your employer must pay 12% super on top of your wages, and from 1 July 2026 it must be paid at the same time as your wages. See super.
Cash in hand
Cash jobs with no payslip are risky. You may not be paid the right rate, you cannot prove the work for your second year visa, and you miss out on super.
Frequently asked questions
What is the minimum wage in Australia in 2026?
From 1 July 2026 the national minimum wage is $26.44 an hour or $1,004.90 a week for full-time adult workers. Casual workers get a 25% loading on top.
How much do backpackers earn fruit picking?
At least $32.18 an hour for casual Level 1 horticulture work from 1 July 2026. Fast pickers on piece rates can earn more.
Do working holiday makers get the same pay as Australians?
Yes. Working holiday makers have the same minimum pay and workplace rights as every other worker in Australia.
Official sources: Fair Work Pay Calculator · Fair Work: horticulture pay and piece rates · Fair Work Ombudsman. Rules change, so always check the official source before you apply or sign anything.