As we find ourselves in the new financial year, a number of the key financial thresholds relating to employees have changed. Click here to view our summary of the key thresholds for the 2025/2026 financial year.
From 1 July 2025, the national minimum wage has increased by 3.5% to AU$24.94 per hour.
Award minimum wages have also risen by 3.5%.
In reaching its conclusion as to the national minimum wage, the Fair Work Commission has cited its principal consideration as a reduction in the real value of wages for employees.
The Fair Work Commission notes this reduction has been driven by the spike in inflation beginning in 2021 and peaking in late 2022. The result, in the eyes of the Fair Work Commission, has been that the lower paid have experienced greater difficulties in meeting their everyday needs.
Therefore, the Fair Work Commission has sought to temper real wage decline without contributing to higher inflation.
The Fair Work Commission notes its wage decision this year has been moderated by the upcoming increase in the Superannuation Guarantee contribution rate, and the uncertainties caused by the influence of the United States trade policies. However, the Fair Work Commission considered the wage increase determined is sustainable in a labour market that remains strong overall.
The Fair Work Commission also observed that workforces that are reliant on modern awards for their wage rates are disproportionately female, with more than half being casual employees and more...
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