More than two million Australian workers win an $18.80-a-week wage increase – so do you fall into the bracket?
- 2.2 million Australians on minimum wage are set to get an increase in their pay
- The industrial umpire decided low income earners should get 2.5 per cent more
- The Fair Work Commission made the ruling after government warned against it
More than 2.2 million Australians on the minimum wage will now get a little bit extra in their pay packet, after the industrial umpire ruled in workers’ favour.
The Fair Work Commission on Wednesday announced in an annual review that full-time minimum-wage earners will receive an extra $18.80-a-week.
The Morrison government had warned against a major increase, arguing it could dampen employment in small business during the coronavirus pandemic.
More than 2.2 million Australians on minimum wages will now get a little bit extra in their pay packet, after the industrial umpire ruled in worker’s favour
The Morrison government had warned against a major increase, arguing it could dampen employment in small business during the coronavirus pandemic
But with unions pushing for a 3.5 per cent increase, the commission decided on the middle-ground figure of 2.5 per cent.
That means a full-time worker is now set to earn a minimum of $20.33 an hour, or $772.60 a week.
While it’s good news for low-income workers, those employed in sectors hard-hit by the coronavirus pandemic – including aviation, fitness, tourism, retail and events, won’t receive the wage boost until November 1.
More than two million people are on award rates of minimum pay for their industry, while almost 200,000 receive the national base wage.
In line with the government’s view, the Australian Industry Group urged the commission to limit its increase to 1.1 per cent, or $8.29 a week.
The Fair Work Commission on Wednesday announced in an annual review that full-time minimum-wage earners will receive an extra $18.80-a-week
Full-time workers are now set to earn a minimum $20.33 an hour, or $772.60 a week
Employers also argue the last increase was paid by many employers at the start of February, labelling a five-month gap between another rise as ‘extremely unfair’.
The Australian Council of Trade Unions wants minimum pay rates boosted to put more money that would stimulate the economy in workers’ pockets.
ACTU Secretary Sally McManus said after the announcement, the delay is ‘extremely disappointing’.
‘Especially those who have worked throughout the pandemic and whose employers have posted record profits,’ she said in a statement.