Workers can expect an increase to the minimum wage next month, with the effects from last week’s Annual Wage Review coming into effect on July 1.
The Fair Work Commission’s Annual Wage Review announced the news last week, stating that award minimum wages would be increasing by 3.75 per cent, bringing the minimum hourly rate to $24.10.
The increase is expected to benefit 2.6 million Australians.
Federal Member for McEwen Rob Mitchell welcomed the news, stating that the increase was a win for workers.
“This decision is a win for workers, a win for women, and will help with the cost of living,” he said.
“The Commission’s changes mean national minimum wage earners in Australia will now be paid $24.10 per hour, which is an extra $33.10 per week and an additional $1721 per year.”
Since coming into government, the minimum wage has increased by $143.30 per week and $7451 .60 per year.
Mr Mitchell said that the Federal Government wanted to see strong and sustained wage growth as part of the solution to the cost-of-living challenge.
“Our economic plan is all about helping Australians earn more and keep more of what they earn, which is why our Budget is focused on easing cost-of-living pressures. That is why we went to bat for Australians, recommending the Commission ensure real wages for low paid workers don’t go backwards,” he said.
The announcement came with other news that the Fair Work Commission would focus on addressing the gender pay gap, which comes as a result of gender undervaluation.
Several awards have been identified as high risk for gender undervaluation, including early childhood education and care workers, disability home care workers and other social and community service workers, dental assistants, medical technicians, psychologists and other health professionals and pharmacists.
The Fair Work Commission aims to address these areas by next year’s Annual Wage Review, to ensure that all Australians benefit.
Mr Mitchell praised the government’s commitment to supporting low paid workers.
“The previous Liberal and National Government never advocated for a pay-rise for low paid workers. The improved outcomes in the last three Annual Wage Reviews are thanks to a government that supports working families,” he said.
“We believe every Australian deserves a fair day’s pay for a fair day’s work.”
