How do I convert my hourly rate to an annual salary?

Multiply your hourly rate by the number of hours you work each week (usually 38 for full-time) and then by 52 weeks. For example, $30 per hour × 38 hours × 52 weeks = $59,280 per year. Our calculator does this automatically and also shows fortnightly and monthly figures.

What is the current national minimum wage in Australia?

From 1 July 2026, the national minimum wage is $26.44 per hour for a 38-hour week, or $1004.90 per week. Casual employees receive a 25% loading, making it $33.05 per hour. These rates are set by the Fair Work Commission and apply to award/agreement-free employees.

Contact Smart Salary: Convert Your Hourly Rate to Annual Pay with Our 38-Hour Week Calculator

Q: How is casual loading applied in your calculator?

Our calculator has a checkbox that adds 25% casual loading on top of the base hourly rate you enter. Do not enter a rate that already includes casual loading. The loading is applied automatically to reflect the higher pay casuals receive in lieu of paid leave.

Based on a standard 38-hour week, the national minimum wage of $26.44 per hour gives an annual salary of $52,254.80 before tax and super.

Understanding Hourly to Annual Conversion

When you need to compare job offers or budget your income, converting an hourly rate to an annual salary is essential. The standard formula used across Australia is:

Hourly rate × hours per week × 52 weeks = annual gross pay

For most full-time employees, the benchmark is 38 ordinary hours per week, as defined under the Fair Work Act. Our calculator assumes this 38-hour week unless you adjust it. This gives you a consistent base for comparing salaries, whether you are on the national minimum wage or covered by an award.

The Fortnightly View

Many employers pay fortnightly, so we also show your gross pay per fortnight (weekly pay × 2). For example, if your weekly pay is $1,000, your fortnightly gross is $2,000. This helps you match your budget to your pay cycle.

National Minimum Wage vs Award Rates

The Fair Work Commission sets the national minimum wage each year. From 1 July 2026, it is $26.44 per hour for a 38-hour week, or $1004.90 per week. This is the minimum for employees not covered by an award or enterprise agreement.

However, most workers are covered by an industry or occupation award, which often sets higher minimum rates. For example, the Social, Community, Home Care and Disability Services Industry Award (SCHADS) has specific classifications and pay points. The Fair Work Ombudsman provides pay guides for each award, listing minimum rates, allowances, and penalty rates. Always check your award to ensure you are being paid correctly.

Casual Loading

Casual employees are entitled to a 25% loading on top of the base hourly rate. This compensates for not receiving paid leave entitlements like annual leave or sick leave. Our calculator includes a checkbox to add this loading automatically. Do not enter a rate that already includes casual loading; the calculator adds it for you. The casual national minimum wage is $33.05 per hour ($26.44 × 1.25).

Superannuation: Paid on Top

Superannuation guarantee contributions are paid by your employer on top of your gross pay. From 1 July 2026, the rate is 12% of your ordinary time earnings, up to the maximum contribution base of $270,830 per year. Super is not deducted from your pay; it is an additional benefit. Our calculator estimates super separately and shows your total remuneration package.

Tax and Medicare

Your annual gross pay is subject to income tax and the Medicare levy. For the 2026–27 financial year, the resident tax rates are:

Nil on the first $18,200
15% on income from $18,201 to $45,000
30% on income from $45,001 to $135,000
37% on income from $135,001 to $190,000
45% on income above $190,000

Medicare levy is generally 2% of your taxable income. Our calculator uses the 2025–26 single reduction thresholds because the 2026–27 thresholds were not confirmed at the time of development. This may affect the exact amount for low-income earners, but the estimate remains reliable for most users.

Using Our Calculator

To get started, visit the timesheet. Enter your base hourly rate (before any casual loading). If you are a casual employee, tick the casual loading checkbox. The calculator will instantly show:

Weekly, fortnightly, monthly, and annual gross pay
Estimated tax and Medicare levy
Net (take-home) pay per period
Superannuation contribution (on top)

All calculations assume you work the same hours every week, with no unpaid overtime, penalty rates, allowances, or salary sacrifice. For a precise determination of your pay and entitlements, refer to your award or contact the Fair Work Ombudsman.

Why Contact Smart Salary

When you contact smart salary through our calculator, you get a transparent breakdown of your earnings. Whether you are negotiating a new job, planning your budget, or checking your current pay, our tool uses official Fair Work and ATO figures to give you confidence. We also provide links to reference tables and average pay data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics, such as the May 2026 Average Weekly Earnings figure of $2,083.70 for full-time adult ordinary time.

Remember: your annual pay is an estimate. It does not include overtime, shift penalties, or allowances. Super is estimated at 12% of ordinary earnings only, paid on top, and stops at the $270,830 maximum contribution base. Tax uses the 2026–27 resident scale with the full tax-free threshold. HELP repayments, the Medicare levy surcharge, and salary packaging are not deducted.

For award-specific rates, always check the Fair Work Ombudsman’s pay guides. For your personal tax situation, consult the Australian Taxation Office or a registered tax agent.

Start your calculation now at the timesheet.