July 1, 2020
The Fair Work Ombudsman has reminded employers the national minimum wage has risen to $19.84 per hour (up from $19.49) or $753.80 per week (up from $740.80).
The 1.75 per cent increase applies from the first full pay period starting on or after July 1.
Employees covered by awards will also have base rates increased by 1.75 per cent, however these increases to award wages begin on different dates for different groups of awards:
- Group 1 awards, such as Frontline Heath Care and Social Assistance Workers; Teachers and Child Care; and other Essential Services, increase from July 1;
- Group 2 awards, such as Construction and Manufacturing, increase from November 1;
- Group 3 awards, such as Accommodation and Food Services; Arts and Recreation Services; Aviation; Retail and Tourism, increase from February 1, 2021.
A list of all awards by group can be found online
Fair Work Ombudsman Sandra Parker said workplaces were expected to ensure all their employees were paid at least the relevant minimum wage, in line with the Fair Work Commission’s decision.
“The Fair Work Ombudsman has free online tools available to help employers comply with their workplace obligations, which have been updated to reflect the new pay rates,” Ms Parker said.
“We urge all businesses to use our Pay and Conditions Tool to check the lawful minimum rates they need to pay their staff, or to contact us directly for free assistance.
“We encourage workers to use the Pay and Conditions Tool to check their rates of pay – and call us if they have any concerns.
“If workers are unsure which award applies to them, they can use the Find My Award Tool.”
The new minimum wages will also apply to any work an employee performs while they’re in the JobKeeper scheme, if they get their pay rate from an award or the national minimum wage.
