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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Water Industry Award Allowances 2025–26

Rates effective 1 July 2025 · MA000113

Allowances under the Water Industry Award are extra payments for specific conditions, skills, or expenses. They are one of the most commonly missed entitlements after penalty rates.

Current allowances

AllowanceAmountWhen it applies
Meal allowance (overtime >2 hours)$23.60 per mealIf you work overtime for more than 2 hours and your employer did not give you notice the day before, you are entitled to a meal allowance of $23.60.
Meal allowance (each further 4 hours OT)$14.98 per mealIf you continue to work overtime for each further 4 hours after the initial 2 hours, you are entitled to an additional meal allowance of $14.98.
Tool allowance$22.25 per weekIf you are a tradesperson required to supply and maintain your own tools, you are entitled to a tool allowance of $22.25 per week.
Vehicle allowance (car)$0.99 per kmIf you are required to use your own car for work purposes, you are entitled to $0.99 per kilometre.
Vehicle allowance (motorcycle)$0.33 per kmIf you are required to use your own motorcycle for work purposes, you are entitled to $0.33 per kilometre.

See also: Pay rates | Allowances & loadings guide

Source: Fair Work Commission pay guide for MA000113, effective 1 July 2025.

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