Minimum wage increases

As of July 1, 2022 the national minimum wage has increased to $21.38 per hour (up from $20.33) or $812.60 per week (up $40 from $772.60) based on a 38-hour week for a full-time employee. This increase applies from an employee’s first full pay period starting on or after today.

On 15 June 2022, the Fair Work Commission announced a $40 per week (which amounts to 5.2 per cent) increase to the national minimum wage following its Annual Wage Review.

Casual employees entitled to the national minimum wage must receive a minimum $26.73 per hour, which includes their 25 per cent casual loading.

Employees covered by awards will have their minimum wage rates increased by 4.6 per cent, which is subject to a minimum increase for adult award classifications of $40 per week based on a 38-hour week for a full-time employee. This means award minimum wage rates above $869.60 per week will receive a 4.6 per cent increase, and wage rates below $869.60 per week increase by $40 per week.

Other award wages, including junior, apprentice and supported wages that are based on adult minimum wages, will get a proportionate increase.

The increases to award wages will happen in two stages, with most award wages increasing from 1 July 2022. For 10 awards in the aviation, hospitality and tourism industries, the increase will start from 1 October 2022. A list of these awards can be found at 1 October 2022 minimum wage increase.

Employees covered by awards will have their minimum wage rates increase from the first full pay period starting on or after the relevant date.

Fair Work Ombudsman Sandra Parker says workplaces must ensure all their employees are paid at least the relevant minimum wage, in accordance with the Fair Work Commission’s decision.

“The Fair Work Ombudsman has updated its free online tools available to help employers and employees calculate the new pay rates. 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,” she says.

“We also encourage workers to use the Pay and Conditions Tool to check their rates of pay. If workers are unsure which award applies to them, they can use our Find my award tool or contact us for help to find any applicable award. If employers and employees have any questions about pay rates, they can contact the Fair Work Ombudsman for free advice and assistance.”

Employers and employees can visit www.fairwork.gov.au or call the Fair Work Infoline on 13 13 94. A free interpreter service is available on 13 14 50.