Shift Allowance Calculator
Work out the extra pay from a shift allowance, such as an evening or night shift loading, added to your base hourly rate in Australia.
Your results
Calculation breakdown
- Shift pay
- Total pay = (base rate × hours) × (1 + allowance %) + flat allowance
Worked example
An $32 base rate over an 8-hour night shift with a 15% shift allowance gives $256 base pay plus $38.40 allowance, totalling $294.40.
Assumptions
- Set the percentage to zero if only a flat allowance applies.
- Confirm the exact allowance from your award or agreement.
How this calculator works
Enter your base hourly rate, hours on the shift and the shift allowance percentage or flat amount from your award or agreement to calculate total shift pay including the allowance. Shift allowances differ by industry and time of day, so all rates are editable.
Frequently asked questions
Is a shift allowance the same as a penalty rate?
They are similar in effect but shift allowances typically compensate for working outside standard hours, such as evenings or nights, rather than weekends.
Can I enter a flat dollar allowance instead of a percentage?
Yes, set the percentage to zero and use the flat allowance field to add a fixed amount per shift instead.
Does this calculator know my award's exact allowance?
No, check your award or Fair Work's Pay and Conditions Tool for the exact allowance that applies to your role.
Actual entitlements can depend on your award, enterprise agreement, contract, employment status and individual circumstances.