General information only — not legal advice. First speak with your employer, then if unsuccessful contact Fair Work or an employment lawyer.
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Animal Care & Vet Award Classification Levels 2025–26

Rates effective 1 July 2025 · MA000118

Your classification level under the Animal Care & Vet Award determines your minimum pay rate. Being classified one level too low can cost you $2–4 per hour — more than $3,000 per year for a full-time worker.

Classification levels

Vet Support

Level 1Veterinary Support — Introductory

Base rate: $24.28/hr · Casual: $30.35/hr

Level 2Veterinary Support — Level 1

Base rate: $24.95/hr · Casual: $31.19/hr

Level 3Veterinary Support — Level 2

Base rate: $26.96/hr · Casual: $33.70/hr

Level 4Veterinary Support — Level 3

Base rate: $28.12/hr · Casual: $35.15/hr

Level 5Veterinary Support — Level 4

Base rate: $30.68/hr · Casual: $38.35/hr

Level 6Veterinary Support — Level 5 Practice Manager

Base rate: $32.23/hr · Casual: $40.29/hr

Vet Surgeon

Level 1Veterinary Surgeon — Level 1A

Base rate: $32.65/hr · Casual: $40.81/hr

Level 2Veterinary Surgeon — Level 1B

Base rate: $34.45/hr · Casual: $43.06/hr

Level 3Veterinary Surgeon — Level 2

Base rate: $37.22/hr · Casual: $46.53/hr

Level 4Veterinary Surgeon — Level 3

Base rate: $40.89/hr · Casual: $51.11/hr

Level 5Veterinary Surgeon — Level 4

Base rate: $46.18/hr · Casual: $57.73/hr

Inspector

Level 1Inspector Level 1

Base rate: $32.65/hr · Casual: $40.81/hr

Level 2Inspector Level 2

Base rate: $34.45/hr · Casual: $43.06/hr

Level 3Senior Inspector

Base rate: $37.22/hr · Casual: $46.53/hr

See also: Pay rates by classification | Am I being underpaid?

Source: Classification levels are defined in the Animal Care & Vet Award (MA000118), published by the Fair Work Commission.

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