Minimum wage australia: In Australia, all workers must get a minimum wage, which is the lowest pay for their work. It’s against the law for bosses to pay less than this.
From 1st July 2023, the minimum wage is $23.23 per hour or $882.74 per week for a 38-hour week.
Only workers under 21, those on the Supported Wage System, and apprentices and trainees can earn less.
The minimum wage is the least you can earn, no matter your job.
If you’re not getting the minimum wage, reach out to your AWU representative or consider joining a union!
City Wise Minimum Wage in Australia:
In Australia, the minimum wage is 23.23 AUD per hour until June 30, 2024. The wage varies based on a worker’s age and skills. There’s no city-wise difference in wages, it’s the same across the country. In 2024, workers over 21 earn 23.23 AUD per hour, while those under 21 earn 15.23 AUD per hour. About 2.5 million workers get this wage. After June 30, 2024, new wage rates will apply.
Minimum wage for Casual workers:
Casual workers often don’t get benefits like paid sick or annual leave. So, they get an extra 25% pay over the minimum wage to make up for it. Your contract might even allow for more than this 25%.
Minimum wage for Young workers:
In Australia, if you’re under 21 and not covered by an award or agreement, your minimum wage is a percentage of the national minimum.
- If you’re under 16, you get 36.8% or $8.55 per hour.
- At 16, you get 47.3% or $10.98 per hour.
- At 17, you get 57.8% or $13.42 per hour.
- At 18, you get 68.3% or $15.87 per hour.
- At 19, you get 82.5% or $19.16 per hour.
- At 20, you get 97.7% or $22.70 per hour.
Some awards or EBAs might give you a higher rate, even up to the full adult minimum wage.
Minimum wage for Apprenticeships and Traineeships:
If you’re an apprentice or trainee, your minimum wage can vary. It depends on your job and age. The longer you work or the better you get at your job, your wage might go up.
How does piece-rates & Commission payments Effect:
Some jobs pay you based on the work you do, not the hours you work. These jobs often have a pay rate above the minimum wage due to an award or agreement. Even without an award or agreement, your pay shouldn’t be less than the minimum wage.
How does award or enterprise agreement Impact minimum wage?
Most jobs have a pay rate set by an award or agreement. This is often negotiated by union members and can be higher than the minimum wage. Some workers might have a contract that gives even higher pay.
Role of Supported Wage System:
The Supported Wage System is for workers with a disability that affects their work. The Department of Social Services (DSS) decides if you qualify for this wage, not your boss. The DSS also determines your pay rate based on your ability to work.
Latest News & Upcoming Changes in Australia Minimum wage 2024:
The Fair Work Commission adjusts Australia’s minimum wage yearly. In 2024, it’s expected to rise by 3.5%. The wage depends on job type, age, and work ability. There’s a gender pay gap, with women earning 77.2 cents for every dollar a man earns. Australia has one of the world’s highest minimum wages.