What rules do I need to know about working in WA?

Western Australia has laws and rules in place to make sure you are treated fairly and safely while you work. 

1. Minimum wage 

All workers must be paid at least the minimum wage, regardless of their job or experience. The minimum wage for most workers is set by the Fair Work Commission and is reviewed annually. You can learn more about the minimum wage(Opens in a new tab/window) in WA. 

2. Working hours 

The maximum number of hours you can work each week is set by regulation and depends on whether you are covered by an Award(Opens in a new tab/window) or not. This includes standard working hours, overtime, and any other time worked. For most full-time employees under WA awards, a 38-hour week is considered normal. You can read more about hours of work in WA(Opens in a new tab/window).

3. Leave entitlements 

All workers are entitled to certain types of leave, including annual leave, personal leave, long service leave(Opens in a new tab/window), and public holidays(Opens in a new tab/window). Remember to speak to your employer to understand what annual and personal leave days you are offered as part of your contract. 

4. Discrimination and harassment

It is illegal for you to be discriminated against because of your race, religion, gender, sexual orientation, or any other protected characteristic. Harassment in the workplace is also not allowed. You can contact WorkSafe(Opens in a new tab/window) if you have any questions or need help. 

5. Health and safety 

Employers must legally provide a high standard of safety and health at the workplace and ensure you are free from physical and psychological harm(Opens in a new tab/window). This includes providing you with a safe working environment, proper training, and the use of personal protective equipment when needed. Take the time to understand more about your rights and responsibilities.(Opens in a new tab/window) 

6. Workers' compensation

All employers in WA must have workers' compensation insurance, which provides financial support and medical treatment for employees who are injured or become ill as a result of their work. 

7. Industrial relations

WA has a system of industrial relations governing the relationship between employees and employers, which makes sure you have a high standard of working conditions. Western Australian workers have the right to join and participate in unions. Western Australia is home to a number of unions, you can learn more about Western Australian unions.(Opens in a new tab/window)