Navigating Awards – what you need to know!
Feb 07, 2020
What are awards?
Awards (modern awards) are legal documents that outline minimum pay rates and conditions of employment.
There are more than 100 industry or occupation awards that cover most people who work in Australia. Awards will apply to employers and employees depending on the industry and the type of work employees are doing.
It’s important to know which award covers the business that you own, manage or work for, as minimum pay rates and conditions differ in each award.
How do I find my award?
You can find your award by using the Fair Work Ombudsman’s (FWO) find my award tool, which asks a few simple questions to help determine your award coverage.
Here are a few common awards in the Hospitality Industry:
Hospitality Industry (General) Award
Registered and Licensed Clubs Award
How do I find the rate of pay in my award?
Each award provides the rate of pay employees need to receive. To identify the correct rate, you will need to know the classification level the employee is working at, which can be found in schedule B of the award.
The FWO’s pay guides can also give you rates of pay, penalty rates and allowances. Alternatively, you can use the FWO’s pay calculator to work out pay rates and entitlements.
Want more information?
To find out more information about awards, visit www.fairwork.gov.au/awards or call 13 13 94.
Operating or working in the Restaurant or Fast Food Industry? The FWO has a dedicated page for you, visit www.fairwork.gov.au/FRAC
