Graduate Lawyer Salary: Award Rates, Annual Pay, and Tax in 2026–27
A law graduate classified at Level 5 under the Legal Services Award earns $33.99 per hour, or $1,291.80 per week for 38 ordinary hours, equating to $67,173.60 per year before tax and super.
Understanding the Graduate Lawyer Salary Under the Legal Services Award
If you are starting your legal career as a law graduate, knowing the correct graduate lawyer salary is essential. The Fair Work Ombudsman’s Legal Services Award 2020 sets minimum pay rates for law graduates working in private law firms and other legal support services. This article explains the award classification, how to convert the hourly rate to annual and fortnightly pay, and what to expect for tax and superannuation.
Award Classification for Law Graduates
Under the Legal Services Award, a law graduate is an employee who has completed a relevant tertiary qualification and is working in a law firm to complete their required period of training before admission to practice. They are classified at Level 5. Qualified lawyers who have been admitted are not covered by the award and are award-free, entitled only to the National Minimum Wage and the National Employment Standards.
Minimum Hourly and Weekly Rates
From the first full pay period on or after 1 July 2026, the minimum rates for a Level 5 law graduate are:
- Hourly rate: $33.99
- Weekly rate (38 ordinary hours): $1,291.80
- Fortnightly rate: $2,583.60
These figures come from the Fair Work Ombudsman’s pay guide for the Legal Services Award. The award also specifies rates for other classifications, such as legal clerical and administrative employees, which start at $28.24 per hour for Level 1.
Calculating Annual Gross Pay
To estimate the annual salary, use the standard formula:
Annual gross = hourly rate × hours per week × 52
For a graduate lawyer on $33.99 per hour working 38 hours per week:
$33.99 × 38 × 52 = $67,173.60 per year
This calculation assumes the same rate every week with no unpaid overtime, penalty rates, or allowances. If you work fewer or more hours, adjust accordingly. For a quick estimate, use our hourly conversion tool.
Casual Loading for Graduate Lawyers
If you are employed as a casual law graduate, the award requires a 25% loading on the minimum hourly rate in lieu of leave entitlements. The casual hourly rate becomes:
$33.99 × 1.25 = $42.49 per hour
This loading is paid for each ordinary hour worked. Casual employees also receive higher overtime rates. See our casual loading page for more details.
Tax on a Graduate Lawyer Salary
For the 2026–27 financial year, the Australian Tax Office’s resident tax rates apply:
- 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
A graduate lawyer earning $67,173.60 falls into the 30% marginal bracket. The estimated tax (including the 2% Medicare levy) is approximately $12,000–$13,000 per year, depending on the exact Medicare reduction thresholds. Use our take-home pay calculator for a personalised estimate.
Superannuation Paid on Top
Employers must contribute superannuation at 12% of ordinary earnings, on top of the base salary, up to the maximum contribution base of $270,830. For a graduate lawyer on $67,173.60, the annual super contribution is:
12% × $67,173.60 = $8,060.83
This is paid in addition to the salary shown in the award. The award specifies that contributions must be made to a fund such as Legalsuper or a stapled fund chosen by the employee.
Comparing with Other Pay Points
The National Minimum Wage from 1 July 2026 is $26.44 per hour ($1,004.90 per week for 38 hours). A graduate lawyer’s award rate of $33.99 is about 29% higher. The ABS Average Weekly Earnings for full-time adult ordinary time (May 2026) is $2,083.70 per week, which is significantly higher than the graduate lawyer rate, reflecting the entry-level nature of the role.
Fortnightly Pay and Budgeting
Most employers pay fortnightly. For a graduate lawyer, the gross fortnightly pay is:
$1,291.80 × 2 = $2,583.60
After estimated tax and Medicare, the net fortnightly take-home would be roughly $2,100–$2,200. This can help with budgeting for rent, bills, and savings.
Important Considerations
- The award rate is a minimum; some employers may offer more.
- Overtime, penalty rates, and allowances are not included in the base calculation.
- Salary packaging (e.g., for a car or laptop) can change the taxable amount.
- The Medicare levy surcharge may apply if you do not have appropriate private hospital cover and your income exceeds the threshold.
For a full breakdown of your pay, refer to our reference tables or use the timesheet to calculate your own hourly rate.
Summary
The graduate lawyer salary under the Legal Services Award is $33.99 per hour, $1,291.80 per week, and $67,173.60 per year for a 38-hour week. Casual employees receive a 25% loading. Superannuation of 12% is paid on top, and tax is calculated using the 2026–27 resident rates. Always check the latest award and seek professional advice for your specific circumstances.
Open the same rate on the home timesheet. Read the reference tables before treating a figure as your pay.