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Printing Industry – Herald & Weekly Times – Production Award pay rates 2026–27
The minimum hourly rates and penalty rates under the Printing Industry – Herald & Weekly Times – Production Award 2015 [MA000126], in force from 1 July 2026. The lowest adult rate is $25.96 an hour, or $32.45 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.
| Classification | Full-time & part-time | Casual |
|---|---|---|
| Production Assistant 1 | $25.96 | $32.45 |
| Production Assistant 2 | $27.69 | $34.61 |
| Publishing Operator | $29.08 | $36.35 |
| Pre Press Operator 1 | $29.45 | $36.81 |
| Printing Machinist 1 | $29.45 | $36.81 |
| Printing Machinist 2 | $30.65 | $38.31 |
| Pre Press Operator 2 | $30.65 | $38.31 |
| Printing Machinist 3 | $31.85 | $39.81 |
| Printing Machinist 4 | $34.04 | $42.55 |
Source: the Fair Work Commission's published rates. Check them against the award or the Fair Work Ombudsman's pay guide.
Printing Industry – Herald & Weekly Times – Production Award: common questions
What is the minimum pay rate under the Printing Industry – Herald & Weekly Times – Production Award?
From 1 July 2026, the lowest adult classification, Production Assistant 1, is $25.96 an hour for full-time and part-time employees and $32.45 an hour for casuals, which includes the casual loading. Higher classifications are paid more; the full table is on this page.
When do Printing Industry – Herald & Weekly Times – Production 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 Printing Industry – Herald & Weekly Times – Production 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.