Question 1

What is the difference between a retail cashier and a retail sales assistant?

Accepted Answer

A retail cashier focuses primarily on processing transactions at the point of sale — scanning items, handling cash and cards, and managing the till. A retail sales assistant has broader duties including customer service throughout the store, stock replenishment and merchandising. Under the General Retail Industry Award, both roles typically fall under similar Retail Employee classifications.

Question 2

What award covers retail cashiers in Australia?

Accepted Answer

Retail cashier positions are covered by the General Retail Industry Award 2020 (MA000004). This award applies to employees in retail establishments including supermarkets, department stores, specialty shops and other retail businesses. The award sets minimum pay rates, penalty rates and conditions for cashiers and other retail employees.

Question 3

What classification level should I use for a retail cashier?

Accepted Answer

Under the General Retail Industry Award, retail cashiers typically start at Level 1 (entry-level with basic cash handling) and progress to Level 2 with experience and competence in operating POS systems and handling more complex transactions. See our Retail Award pay rates guide for current rates.

Question 4

How do I handle till shortages with cashiers?

Accepted Answer

Till shortages should be managed through clear policies documented in the job description and employee handbook. Employers cannot automatically deduct shortages from wages without written authorisation. Focus on training, supervision and reconciliation procedures to minimise errors. Repeated significant shortages may indicate training needs or performance issues requiring formal management.

Question 5

What qualifications do retail cashiers need?

Accepted Answer

Formal qualifications aren't typically required for retail cashier positions. Employers look for strong numeracy skills, accuracy, reliability and customer service aptitude. Cash handling experience is preferred but not essential for entry-level roles. A trustworthy character and ability to pass background checks are important given the nature of handling money.

Question 6

Do retail cashiers need any certificates?

Accepted Answer

Generally, no certificates are legally required for retail cashiers. However, some retail environments may require specific training such as RSA (Responsible Service of Alcohol) for liquor retailers. Basic computer literacy and familiarity with POS systems is beneficial. Some employers may provide internal certification after completing cash handling training.

Question 7

What experience should I look for in a retail cashier?

Accepted Answer

For entry-level positions, previous cash handling experience isn't essential — focus on numeracy, accuracy and reliability. For senior cashier or service desk roles, look for demonstrated experience with POS systems, cash reconciliation, handling customer transactions and maintaining accuracy under pressure during high-volume periods.

Question 8

Can I hire retail cashiers without cash handling experience?

Accepted Answer

Yes, many retailers successfully hire and train cashiers without prior cash handling experience. Entry-level cashier positions (Level 1 under the award) are designed for people new to retail and cash handling. Provide comprehensive training on your POS system, cash handling procedures and reconciliation processes. Focus on numeracy, attention to detail and integrity during recruitment.

Question 9

Should I hire casual or permanent retail cashiers?

Accepted Answer

This depends on your trading patterns and transaction volumes. Casual cashiers provide flexibility for peak trading periods (weekends, sales events, Christmas) and include a 25% casual loading. Permanent part-time cashiers offer consistency for core trading hours and may have better accuracy through familiarity with your systems. Many retailers use a mix — permanent staff for weekday trading and casuals for weekends. See our guide on casual vs permanent employment trends.

Question 10

What penalty rates apply to retail cashiers?

Accepted Answer

Under the General Retail Industry Award, penalty rates apply for: Saturdays (varies by employment type), Sundays (premium rates), public holidays (premium rates), and evening work after certain hours. Casual employees receive a 25% loading instead of leave entitlements. Use award interpretation software to calculate rates accurately.

Question 11

What are the minimum shift lengths for retail cashiers?

Accepted Answer

Under the General Retail Industry Award, the minimum engagement for casual employees is 3 hours per shift. Part-time employees also have minimum shift requirements. This ensures cashiers receive reasonable compensation for attending work and completing opening or closing till reconciliation procedures.

Question 12

What should I include in a retail cashier employment contract?

Accepted Answer

Key elements include: position title and classification level, employment type (casual/part-time/full-time), hourly rate or salary, applicable award, reporting structure, main duties (cash handling, POS operation, reconciliation), work location, required availability and cash handling responsibilities. Address till shortage policies and reconciliation procedures. Use our digital employment contracts to simplify this process.

Question 13

How far in advance must I provide rosters to retail cashiers?

Accepted Answer

Under the General Retail Industry Award, rosters must be provided at least 7 days in advance. Changes within this period require employee agreement unless due to unforeseen circumstances. Using rostering software helps support compliance and gives cashiers visibility of their upcoming shifts and till assignments.

Question 14

Can I require retail cashiers to work weekends?

Accepted Answer

Yes, weekend work is common in retail and essential for cashier positions as weekends are typically peak trading periods. Clearly communicate weekend availability requirements in the job description and during recruitment. Under the award, cashiers are entitled to penalty rates for Saturday and Sunday work. Part-time employees should have their regular pattern of hours agreed in writing.

Question 15

What breaks are retail cashiers entitled to?

Accepted Answer

Under the General Retail Industry Award, employees working more than 5 hours are entitled to an unpaid meal break of 30-60 minutes. Paid rest breaks also apply based on shift length. Cashiers require regular breaks from standing at the register and concentrating on transaction accuracy. Use break planning tools to support compliance and adequate relief coverage.

Question 16

How do I manage cashier availability during peak periods?

Accepted Answer

Collect availability preferences during employee onboarding and communicate peak period requirements (Christmas, sales events, end of financial year). Use staff availability management tools to track availability and assign experienced cashiers to high-volume periods. Consider offering incentives for peak period availability and set clear policies about minimum availability requirements for cashier roles.

Retail cashier job description