Under MA000120, Saturday is 150% (175% casual), Sunday 200% (225% casual) and public holidays 250% (275% casual). Casual percentages already include the 25% loading. Shift loadings apply for early-morning (10%), afternoon (15%), rotating night (17.5%) and permanent night (30%) work.
Rates current as at 2026-07-01 (Annual Wage Review), sourced from the Fair Work Ombudsman Pay Guide MA000120. Next review 2027-07-01.
Saturday: 150% (FT/PT) · 175% (casual)
Sunday: 200% (FT/PT) · 225% (casual)
Public holiday: 250% (FT/PT) · 275% (casual)
Shift loadings: early-morning +10%, afternoon +15%, night +17.5% / +30%
The Penalty Rate Table
Percentages are of the ordinary hourly rate; casual rates are all-inclusive of the 25% loading.
| When worked | Full-time / part-time | Casual (all-inclusive) |
|---|---|---|
| Saturday | 150% | 175% |
| Sunday | 200% | 225% |
| Public holiday | 250% | 275% |
Worked Examples
For a Support Worker Level 1.1 on $26.44/hr:
- Saturday: $39.66/hr (FT/PT) · $46.27/hr (casual)
- Sunday: $52.88/hr (FT/PT) · $59.49/hr (casual)
- Public holiday: $66.10/hr (FT/PT) · $72.71/hr (casual)
Shift Loadings
Shift loadings apply to ordinary hours: early-morning 10%, afternoon 15%, rotating night 17.5% and permanent night 30%. On weekends and public holidays the penalty rate applies instead — the higher single entitlement, not both.
Common Mistakes That Trigger Audits
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Sunday rate under the Children's Services Award?
What is the public holiday rate for childcare staff?
What shift loadings apply under MA000120?
Are casual penalty rates on top of casual loading?
Get it right — instantly
Stop guessing. Fitz HR answers any Children's Services Award question — pay rates, penalties, allowances, compliance — grounded in the current Pay Guide MA000120.
Ask Fitz Free — No Card Required →