Fast Food Shift Past Midnight — What's the Loading?
Last updated: March 2026 · MA000003
After midnight, you receive a 15% loading on top of your base rate — higher than the 10% loading that applies from 10pm to midnight. Under the Fast Food Industry Award, these late-night loadings are separate entitlements that apply to all employees, including casuals.
The rule
The Fast Food Industry Award (MA000003) sets two tiers of late-night loading. From 10pm to midnight, all employees receive a 10% loading on top of their ordinary (or casual) rate. After midnight, the loading increases to 15%. These loadings apply every day of the week and are in addition to any weekend penalty rates. They recognise the unsociable nature of working late-night and early-morning hours.
What you should be paid
Grade 1 full-time, weekday 9pm–2am shift
- 9pm–10pm (1 hr, base): $26.55
- 10pm–midnight (2 hrs, 110%): $58.42
- Midnight–2am (2 hrs, 115%): $61.06
- Correct total: $146.03
At a flat rate for 5 hours, you'd receive $132.75 — a shortfall of $13.28 in late-night loadings.
What to check on your payslip
- Are hours between 10pm and midnight paid at a 10% premium?
- Are hours after midnight paid at a 15% premium?
- If your shift spans both time bands, are they calculated separately?
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Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between the 10pm and midnight loadings?
Between 10pm and midnight, you receive a 10% loading on top of your base rate. After midnight, this increases to 15%. The loadings reflect the greater inconvenience and health impact of working very late or early morning hours.
Does the after-midnight loading stack with Saturday or Sunday penalties?
The late night loading applies on top of your applicable rate for that day. If your shift crosses midnight from Saturday into Sunday, the after-midnight hours receive both the Sunday penalty rate and the 15% late night loading. These entitlements are cumulative.
I work drive-through from 11pm to 3am — how is my pay calculated?
From 11pm to midnight, you receive your base rate plus the 10% late night loading. From midnight to 3am, you receive your base rate plus the 15% after-midnight loading. If this falls on a weekend, the relevant penalty rate applies first, then the loading is added on top.
General information only — not legal advice. Verify details at fairwork.gov.au.