Home / Pay guides / MA000026
Graphic Arts, Printing and Publishing Award pay rates 2026–27
The minimum hourly rates and penalty rates under the Graphic Arts, Printing and Publishing Award 2020 [MA000026], in force from 1 July 2026. The lowest adult rate is $25.74 an hour, or $32.17 for casuals.
Minimum hourly rates
Adult rates per hour. The casual rate includes the casual loading. Junior, apprentice and trainee rates are set separately in the award.
Graphic Arts, Printing and Publishing Employees
| Classification | Full-time & part-time | Casual |
|---|---|---|
| Level 1 | $25.74 | $32.17 |
| Level 2 | $26.44 | $33.05 |
| Level 3 | $27.08 | $33.85 |
| Level 6 | $30.38 | $37.98 |
| Level 7 | $31.30 | $39.13 |
| Classification | Full-time & part-time | Casual |
|---|---|---|
| Certificate II — Level 4 | $27.97 | $34.96 |
| Trade Certificate/ Certificate III — Level 5 | $29.45 | $36.81 |
| Certificate IV (except as set out in clause 17.3) — Level 8 | $32.13 | $40.16 |
Source: the Fair Work Commission's published rates. Check them against the award or the Fair Work Ombudsman's pay guide.
Graphic Arts, Printing and Publishing Award: common questions
What is the minimum pay rate under the Graphic Arts, Printing and Publishing Award?
From 1 July 2026, the lowest adult classification, Level 1, is $25.74 an hour for full-time and part-time employees and $32.17 an hour for casuals, which includes the casual loading. Higher classifications are paid more; the full table is on this page.
When do Graphic Arts, Printing and Publishing Award pay rates change?
The Fair Work Commission reviews minimum wages every year, and new rates usually apply from the first full pay period on or after 1 July. The rates on this page apply from 1 July 2026.
How do I check a payslip against the Graphic Arts, Printing and Publishing Award?
Upload the payslip to FairCheck's free payslip check. It reads the pay lines, confirms the award and classification with you, and shows whether the rates, penalties and super meet this award, with the reasoning for every line.