Australia’s minimum pay rates changed from 1 July 2026, and workers should check that the new rates are appearing on their payslips.
The Fair Work Ombudsman says the National Minimum Wage is now $1,004.90 a week for a 38-hour week, or $26.44 an hour. For casual employees who are entitled to the National Minimum Wage, the minimum is $33.05 an hour including the 25 per cent casual loading.
Most workers are covered by a modern award rather than the National Minimum Wage. Minimum award wages increased by 4.75 per cent from the first full pay period starting on or after 1 July 2026.
For Nepali workers in Australia, the practical message is simple: do not assume the hourly rate written in an old employment contract or roster is still correct. Check the award that applies to your job, classification, age and employment type, and compare the result with your current payslip.
The Fair Work Ombudsman’s Pay and Conditions Tool is the safest place to check current minimum rates. Visa status does not remove workplace rights, and migrant workers are entitled to the same minimum wages and conditions that apply to other employees.
This article is general information only. Individual entitlements depend on the applicable award, agreement and employment circumstances.