Sunday Fast Food Shift — Where's My Penalty Rate?
Last updated: March 2026 · MA000003
If you worked a Sunday shift in fast food and were paid your normal weekday rate, you have been underpaid. The Fast Food Industry Award requires penalty rates for every hour worked on a Sunday — no exceptions.
The rule
Under the Fast Food Industry Award (MA000003), full-time and part-time employees must be paid 150% of their ordinary hourly rate for all work performed on a Sunday. Casual employees receive 175% of the ordinary rate (not on top of casual loading — the 175% replaces the base casual rate for Sunday work). These rates apply from midnight Saturday to midnight Sunday.
What you should be paid
Grade 1 full-time, 6-hour Sunday shift
- Ordinary hourly rate: $26.55/hr
- Sunday rate (150%): $39.83/hr
- 6-hour shift: $238.98
If paid at the ordinary rate, you'd receive $159.30 — a shortfall of $79.68 for a single shift.
What to check on your payslip
- Is your Sunday shift listed as a separate line item with a penalty rate?
- Does the hourly rate shown for Sunday match 150% (permanent) or 175% (casual)?
- Are all hours between midnight Saturday and midnight Sunday captured at the penalty rate?
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Frequently asked questions
Do all fast food workers get Sunday penalty rates?
Yes. Under the Fast Food Industry Award (MA000003), every employee working on a Sunday receives a penalty rate — 150% for full-time and part-time workers, and 175% for casuals. There are no exceptions based on role or seniority.
Can my employer average out my Sunday rate across the week?
No. Sunday penalty rates must be paid for each hour worked on a Sunday. Your employer cannot spread the loading across the week to make it look like you're being paid correctly. Each day's pay must reflect the correct rate for that day.
What if my contract says I agreed to no penalty rates on Sundays?
An employment contract or agreement cannot pay you less than the award rate. Even if you signed something agreeing to a flat rate, you are still legally entitled to Sunday penalties under the Fast Food Industry Award. Any clause that undercuts the award is void.
General information only — not legal advice. Verify details at fairwork.gov.au.