What is the typical hourly rate for a store manager under the General Retail Industry Award?

Store manager rates under the General Retail Industry Award vary by classification level. For example, a Level 4 store manager may earn around $28–$32 per hour, while higher-level managers can earn more. Always check the latest Fair Work Ombudsman pay guide for your specific award classification.

Does the store manager salary include casual loading?

Casual loading of 25% applies only if the store manager is employed as a casual. Permanent store managers (full-time or part-time) do not receive casual loading. The base hourly rate for a casual store manager would be higher to account for the loading, but super is still paid on top of the loaded rate.

How is superannuation calculated for a store manager salary?

Superannuation is 12% of ordinary time earnings, paid on top of the salary. For a store manager earning $35 per hour, the annual super contribution would be about $8,299 (12% of $69,160), up to the maximum contribution base of $270,830. This is not deducted from the employee's pay.

Store Manager Salary: Hourly to Annual Conversion Guide

A store manager earning $35 per hour on a 38-hour week would gross approximately $69,160 annually, before tax and super.

Understanding the Store Manager Salary in Australia

When you're evaluating a store manager salary, it helps to break it down into hourly, weekly, fortnightly, and annual figures. Whether you're negotiating a new role or checking your current pay, knowing how to convert between these periods gives you a clearer picture of your earnings. This guide uses the latest figures from the Fair Work Commission and the Fair Work Ombudsman to explain the process, including tax and superannuation.

What the National Minimum Wage Means for Store Managers

From 1 July 2026, the National Minimum Wage is $26.44 per hour, or $1,004.90 for a 38-hour week. This is the legal floor for award/agreement-free adult employees. However, most store managers are covered by an award, typically the General Retail Industry Award, which sets higher minimum rates based on classification and experience. The National Minimum Wage serves as a baseline, but a store manager salary should reflect the responsibilities of the role.

Award Rates and the General Retail Industry Award

The Fair Work Ombudsman publishes pay guides for each award, including the General Retail Industry Award. Store manager classifications under this award range from Level 3 to Level 5 or higher, depending on the size of the store and the scope of management duties. For example, a Level 4 store manager might have a minimum hourly rate around $28–$30, while a Level 5 manager could earn $32 or more. These rates are updated annually following the Fair Work Commission's wage review. Always check the latest pay guide for the exact rate that applies to your role.

Converting an Hourly Store Manager Rate to Annual Salary

The standard formula for converting an hourly rate to an annual salary is:

Annual gross = hourly rate × hours per week × 52

We assume a 38-hour week, which is the ordinary hours for full-time employees under most awards. For example, if your store manager salary is offered at $35 per hour:

Weekly: $35 × 38 = $1,330
Fortnightly: $1,330 × 2 = $2,660
Annual: $35 × 38 × 52 = $69,160

This calculation assumes the same rate every week, no unpaid overtime, and no penalty rates or allowances. If you work additional hours, your actual annual earnings will be higher. The fortnightly figure is useful for budgeting, as many employers pay staff every two weeks.

The Role of Casual Loading and Superannuation

If you are employed as a casual store manager, you are entitled to a 25% casual loading on top of the base hourly rate. For a $35 base rate, the casual rate would be $43.75 per hour. Never enter a rate that already includes casual loading into our timesheet; instead, enter the base rate and check the casual loading box. Superannuation is calculated at 12% of ordinary time earnings and is paid on top of your salary, not deducted from it. For a $69,160 annual salary, the super contribution would be approximately $8,299, up to the $270,830 maximum contribution base. This is separate from your take-home pay.

Tax Considerations for Store Managers

Using the 2026–27 resident tax rates, the first $18,200 is tax-free. Income between $18,201 and $45,000 is taxed at 15%, then 30% up to $135,000, 37% up to $190,000, and 45% above that. A Medicare levy of 2% generally applies. For a store manager earning $69,160 annually, the estimated tax (including Medicare) would be around $11,500, leaving a take-home pay of about $57,660 per year. Use our take-home pay tool for a more detailed estimate. Note that HELP repayments, the Medicare levy surcharge, and salary packaging are not included in this basic calculation.

Using Our Tools to Compare Store Manager Salaries

Our hourly conversion tool lets you enter any hourly rate and see the annual, weekly, and fortnightly equivalents. You can also explore job pay to see how store manager salaries compare across industries. Remember that the figures here are estimates. For a precise store manager salary, refer to your award's pay guide or your employment contract. The Australian Bureau of Statistics reports that full-time adult average weekly ordinary time earnings were $2,083.70 in May 2026, which equates to about $108,352 annually. A store manager salary may fall below or above this average depending on the sector and location.

Final Thoughts on Store Manager Salary

Understanding your store manager salary in different time frames helps you negotiate confidently and plan your finances. Whether you're paid hourly or on a salary, the conversion principles remain the same. Use our reference tables for quick comparisons, and always check the Fair Work Ombudsman for the latest award rates. Your store manager salary should reflect your skills, experience, and the value you bring to the business.