Annual wage review increase announced

Jun 4th, 2018

The Fair Work Commission (FWC) has announced its annual wage review for 2018. 

The FWC decided a 3.5% increase will come into effect from the first full pay period commencing on or after 1 July 2018. The $24.30 per week increase awarded to Australia's lowest paid workers falls between the ACTU's push for an extra $50 and Australian Industry Group's $12.50 per week.

The increase will mean the following; 

  • The weekly rates of pay in the modern awards will increase by 3.5%, rounded to the nearest 10 cents, with commensurate increases in hourly rates on the basis of a 38 hour week.
  • The casual loading for award/agreement free employees will remain at 25%, and 
  • The national minimum wage will increase from $694.90 per week ($18.29/hr) to $719.20 per week ($18.93/hr). 
The increase applies to minimum wages for junior employees, employees to whom training arrangements apply and employees with a disability. Wages in the National Training Wage Schedule will also be adjusted by 3.5%. 

What happens now?

All employers should check employee rates of pay and conditions to ensure they are meeting their minimum wage obligations following the annual wage increase. 

To find out more contact us today.
 

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