Consistent, independent work with robust hourly rates, especially for early-morning office contracts before class.

Typical hourly rate

$28–$40

Typical hours

Early mornings or after 6pm; 10–20 hrs/week

Demand

High

Covered by: Cleaning Services Award. Rates shown are indicative advertised casual rates including loading — your legal minimum is the current award rate at fairwork.gov.au.

What the job actually involves

- Clean offices, gyms, apartments or Airbnb turnovers
- Manage chemicals and equipment safely
- Complete checklists per site

Honest pros and cons

Pros

- Work alone at your own pace
- Fits around lectures

Cons

- Underpayment is common in subcontracted cleaning — check payslips
- Physically demanding

Frequently asked questions

What should a cleaner be paid in Australia?

The Cleaning Services Award sets minimum rates, with higher rates for casual, night and weekend work. Rates below the award are unlawful even if you agreed to them — you can recover unpaid wages through the Fair Work Ombudsman.

Work out what this actually pays you

Put $28–$40 per hour into the wage calculator to see weekly take-home pay after tax, then check it against typical rent in your city.

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📌 Commercial or Domestic Cleaner (Townsville City)
🏢 Australian Student
📍 Townsville City